Driving with a pillow to relieve hip pain

There may be many causes of hip pain. The hip joint is a complex joint with many support tendons, ligaments and muscles. Any weakness in the support structure can cause pain. Arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, muscle strain and nerve stimulation may also be potential sources of hip pain. Driving can exacerbate hip pain and the pillow may be relieved under certain conditions.

If you have hip pain, you will feel uncomfortable driving. (Source: Rostislav_Sedlacek / iStock / Getty Images)

About the hip joint

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint that can perform a variety of exercises. The muscles, tendons and ligaments in the buttocks and upper thighs provide a leverage to accomplish all of these movements. If any muscle becomes nervous or inflamed, it can cause hip pain. The hip also has a fluid-filled sac called a bursa that helps cushion the joints while walking or running. These burs may be inflamed and cause hip pain.

Prevention of hip pain

The most common cause of hip pain is osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear of the hip joint. Problems with the lower back, such as lumbar muscle spasms, can cause hip pain because the two areas share nerves that may be irritated. Follow many strategies to relieve or reduce hip pain. Good physical function is very important to prevent re-injury. Avoid activities that require your wide spread of the hips. Avoid sitting for long periods of time and restrict repeated hip bending.

Back Pillows

Driving will increase hip pain in the lower back. The pillow used to support the waist area relieves some pain. If you use a pillow to support the lower back, make sure it fits snugly against the waist area. If you put your wallet in the back pocket, remove it before sitting on the pillow; the wallet can cause your pelvis to twist, which can stress the back.

Sitting on a pillow

If you are short, the pillow above the seat can improve your ergonomic position and reduce hip and back tension. Pillows can also reduce the type of road vibration that can exacerbate hip pain. The pillow should support the entire thigh evenly, and do not put any pressure on the back of the knee. Pressing uneven pillowsWill limit circulation and cause more pain. Adjust the seat and angle to adjust the pillow so that the knees are flush with the hips or slightly lower.