Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. These symptoms can make it difficult to drive safely, especially for people who rely on their car for transportation. Luckily, living with arthritis doesn’t mean giving up on driving and there are a range of practical disability adaptations and tips for a safer, more comfortable journey.
Understanding Arthritis-Related Driving Challenges
Driving with arthritis can pose unique challenges that affect your comfort and safety on the road. The joint pain, limited mobility, and potentially slower reaction times associated with arthritis can impact your driving experience. It’s crucial to communicate these concerns with your healthcare professional to receive tailored advice that considers your specific condition and needs. By addressing these challenges proactively, you can take steps to make your driving experience more manageable and enjoyable.
Preparing Your Vehicle For Arthritis-Friendly Driving
Choosing the right vehicle plays a pivotal role in ensuring an arthritis-friendly driving experience. Look for vehicle models that offer easily accessible controls and adjustable seating options. These features can help you find a comfortable driving position that minimises strain on your arthritic joints.
Additionally, consider investing in grip-enhancing steering wheel covers and seat cushions. These simple additions can significantly enhance your grip on the steering wheel and provide extra support to your back and hips during longer drives.
Ergonomic Driving Techniques For Arthritis Relief
Adopting ergonomic driving techniques can go a long way in reducing joint strain while driving. Instead of using your fingers to operate controls, try using your palm to distribute the pressure more evenly. This can help alleviate stress on individual joints, making the driving experience more comfortable.
Furthermore, it’s advisable to take regular breaks during longer journeys. During these breaks, perform gentle stretching exercises to help maintain flexibility and ease any tension that may have built up during the drive.
Lastly, pay attention to the positioning of your wrists while holding the steering wheel. Keeping your wrists in a neutral position can help minimise stress on arthritic joints and reduce discomfort.
Utilising Driving Aids And Adaptations
Modern technology offers a range of adaptive driving aids designed to cater to the needs of arthritis patients. Explore options such as hand controls, pedal extensions, and steering knobs. These aids can significantly enhance your driving experience by providing alternative methods for operating the vehicle’s controls. Before making any decisions, it’s important to learn about the benefits of these adaptive devices and understand the installation process.
Safe Driving Practices for Arthritis Patients
Ensuring safety on the road is paramount for all drivers, especially those with arthritis. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial to prevent any unexpected issues that could compromise your safety.
Additionally, plan your driving routes strategically to avoid challenging road conditions whenever possible. By doing so, you can minimise the physical demands of driving in adverse situations.
Lastly, keep yourself informed about the potential effects of any medications you’re taking on your driving ability. Some medications can cause drowsiness or impaired reaction times, which can affect your safety behind the wheel.
Driving Aids at PB Conversions
Here at PB Conversions our aim is to make driving fun and as easy as possible for all, we have developed a team of professionals who can install all types of aids to make driving your car easier for you.
We have a range of products such as hand controls, remote control devices and many other products designed for all. If this is something you have been looking for but can’t find the right provider stop right there. We have what you may need.
Contact PB Conversions today to get more information about how we can help you.
Recently had my fourth vehicle adapted by Paul At Pb Conversions.always does a first class job and with first class service & always easy to deal with. Thanks for the great service Paul from you and your crew over the years.
Kiran was very helpful today explaining some of the issues I had with my hoist, and how to avoid them from happening again.
Dealt with the adaptations for my son's new motability vehicle - very friendly, efficient and helpful. Really pleased.
Very helpful and knowledgeable engineer, fast and efficient service
Thank you so much for all your advice, help and very professional job on adapting our car. Without your advice I would never have known to apply for a grant. You were excellent, thank again.
Due to my husband's condition we need a car with adaptions, we were advised by his paraplegic group to visit and this place is the best. Felt so relaxed talking about what we needed, all the staff were so friendly and so well informed, going above and beyond, especially Paul Berridge. I fully recommend this business. Honest and reliable. Thank you.
Staff are super super friendly, helpful, extremely informative and really nothing Paul & Co can’t do to any vehicle. PERFECTION is their middle name! Thank you so much for your outstanding service to me over the years and I look forward to using your company all my driving life.
Excellent work done on our car and very professional company. Great customer service and prompt response to emails.
Would you like an assessment?
If you are a disabled driver, or know a disabled driver in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire or Northamptonshire, please contact PB Conversions for a free no obligation quote to assess what products would benefit you.