BackShield users experience significant improvement in back-related pain after just two weeks of use. American Community Survey data from The Census has found that our daily commute continues to increase in duration. In 2015, the survey found that the typical American spent roughly three hours and 20 minutes more on their commute than they did in 2014.

As research continues to point to the health repercussions from sitting for long periods of time, it’s no surprise that adding even more stationary hours to our day during a commute isn’t doing our posture-related pain any favors.

Our bodies capture a certain type of stress from driving, whether we realize it or not. Our back, shoulders, and neck consistently suffer from driving through traffic, and driving altogether puts specific demands on our bodies in regards to posture and tension.

For those who drive often for work or can’t avoid the daily commute, there are a few ways to protect your posture.

Pain-Proofing Your Commute

1. Incorporate simple, seated stretches while stopped in traffic. Start with rolling your shoulders back and in a circular pattern. The movement will release tension in your shoulders while lengthening and stretching your muscles.
2. Edit your seat angle. The exact position of your car seat can have a huge impact on your back health and posture. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, back pain is mitigated by creating an angle that is greater than 91 degrees (just a little less than a perfect “L”). We recommend finding the best possible seat addition to make sure you get it right.
3. Stay hydrated. It may sound simple, but shouldn’t be overlooked: staying well hydrated is essential whenever you are faced with a commute or long travel. The extra fluids keep your system “well-oiled” and prevent aches, muscle fatigue, and more. Aim for at least 8 ounces of water well before you begin your commute, if possible.
4. Invest in your back health. One of the most effective ways to prevent back pain and reverse any pain you’re already experiencing is to find a posture support system that works for you. Doing so eliminates some of the key drivers behind back pain: bad posture, improper seat angle, and lack of natural curvature in the back due to a lacking seat design.

We’re partial to BackShield — but we have our reasons:

• BackShield users experience significant improvement in back-related pain after just two weeks of use
• Many customers report that they “completely forgot” about their back pain after investing in the product
• We put our hearts (and research) into BackShield to provide a solution that keeps your spine perfectly aligned for hours
• Using BackShield improves circulation to relieve back pain over time while our one-of-a-kind cushioning system delivers immediate comfort

It pays to pay attention to your back health, especially if you have a daily commute or habit that you suspect is harmful for your back. Invest in prevention and solution now, not later — your back will thank you.