WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT, A LONG, LEISURELY AND SAFE DRIVE CAN DO A LOT TO LIFT MOOD AND SPIRIT

By Dr. Anthony DeLuca, Director of DeLuca Family Chiropractic in Old Bridge, New Jersey, Selected for the Olympic training center in San Diego California and Colorado Springs Colorado

After months of social distancing and obeying “stay-at-home” orders, individuals statewide are once again expanding their environments with a keen knowledge of the precautions needed to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19.

Although an executive order is still in effect that advises against unnecessary driving on state roads, the hope exists that we will sooner rather than later take control of this terrible pandemic and return to the roads for responsible, leisurely drives that clear the head and allow us to tour New Jersey’s many scenic landscapes, beaches and historic sites from the safety of our own vehicles.

In fact, this may be the time to plan ahead and identify the wealth of attractions that are just few hours away from virtually any starting spot in the state. From the top of the High Point Monument in Sussex and Jersey Shore Alpacas farm in Cape May to the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Columbia and Well-Sweep Herb Farm in Port Murray, New Jersey is lled with highpoints that you probably didn’t know existed or even considered for an off day. Ever been to Thomas Edison’s research laboratory in Menlo Park or Washington’s headquarters in Morristown? There are literally hundreds of fun, interesting and beautiful locations like these throughout the state that are begging your attention.

That said, sitting whether at home or in a car or plane for too long is never a good idea. Considered the “new smoking,” sitting for extended periods, especially in enclosed areas with limited legroom like a car can wreak havoc on the body. In addition to leaving you stressed, tired, stiff and sore, certain pressures and forces from the awkward position.

Research has also linked sitting for long periods to obesity, heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic leg pain, varicose veins and even swelling.

In extreme cases, long periods of inactivity, like too much sitting, extended bed-rest or long trips can even lead to blood clots. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone traveling more than a few hours, whether by air, car, bus, or train, can be at risk for blood clots, which can form in the legs when the ow of blood moves too slowly and against gravity upwards while sitting for too long. Clots that break free and travel to the lungs, heart and brain are not only the cause of medical emergencies, they can be life-threatening.

As a result, long trips should be treated almost like athletic events. Contracting and relaxing muscles are imperative for helping the blood to ow properly. That’s why it’s so important to warmup and cool down before and after long trips:

• Adjust the seat so you are as close to the steering wheel as comfortably possible. Your knees should be slightly higher than your hips. Place four ngers behind the back of your thigh closest to your knee. If you cannot easily slide your ngers in and out of that space, you need to re-adjust your seat

• Consider a back support. Using a support may reduce the incidence of low back strain and pain. The widest part of the support should be between the bottom of your rib cage and your waistline

• Exercise your legs while driving to reduce the risk of any swelling, fatigue or discomfort. Open your toes as wide as you can, and count to 10. Count to ve while you tighten your calf muscles, then your thigh muscles, then your gluteal muscles. Roll your shoulders forward and back, making sure to keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road. Flex and straighten your legs, feet and ankles as often as possible

• To minimize arm and hand tension while driving, periodically adjust the positions of your hands on the steering wheel

• Do not grip the steering wheel. Instead, tighten and loosen your grip to improve hand circulation and decrease muscle fatigue in the arms, wrists and hands.

• While always being careful to keep your eyes on the road, vary your focal point while driving to reduce the risk of eye fatigue and tension headaches.

• Take frequent breaks. Stop the car, get out and stretch your legs or even take a brief walk every hour or so. Never underestimate the potential consequences of fatigue to yourself, your passengers and other drivers.

To establish a new sense of health, balance and well-being please feel free to contact DeLuca Family Chiropractic at (732) 679-2414 or visit our website at www.dfccares.com. Our dedicated staff located at 2309 Hwy 516 in Old Bridge, NJ will be happy to meet with you and tailor a chiropractic and wellness program speci cally targeted to your needs using the least invasive yet highly-effective techniques and services.