I’m new to the site and have gained a lot by reading others’ journeys. I drive 40 miles each way to work and some days it’s an impossible task. I get anxiety attacks while driving (I don’t know where I am and have to calm myself down until I do). It’s worse when I drive somewhere new. I also can’t drive long distances any more. Does anyone else find driving difficult? Has anyone found that some cars are easier to drive than others? Right now I have small SUV; I’m willing to trade it in for anything that makes life easier for me.
I’m single, so I take care of the day to day trials of fibro alone. I don’t have anyone to rely on to drive me to work or other places. I am working to get handicap placards from the DMV, which should help.
Hi Amy. I drive roughly 40 minutes to work (approximately 80 minutes daily). It definitely takes a toll on my body. Unfortunately I have missed a number of days because I could not bear to drive, and when I do drive it can cause pain in shoulders/elbows/wrists. Things that I find helpful: a small snack (fruit or nuts or cheese) and small cup of juice or iced tea before leaving; a heated steering wheel; gps to avoid getting lost if on a new route; rear parking assist (camera). I live in California, so I also use the wonderful HOV lanes. The snack and drink make me more alert. The other things save my sanity. When I’m a passenger I’m still physically miserable; my rheumatologist suggested stopping along the way for a comfortable walk and small snack. I think the idea is to find tricks that relieve your stress, whether physical or mental/emotional. These are my tricks. I hope something here helps you.
–BJ
Thanks, BJ,
I really appreciate the reminder about snacks. I bought almonds and cranberries just for that and guess where they are? In the cabinet. I’ve been keeping the seat warmers on high and that helps my lower back, but does nothing for my neck, shoulders, arms and wrists. I just started keeping a pillow in the car, at the PT’s suggestion, and it helps keep my arms in the correct position and saves some energy. Thank you again for replying.
In peace and justice,
Amy
AES & BJ, I do not have to drive nearly as far as you every day, but driving is still difficult for me, also. At every red light, I take both hands off the wheel to rest in my lap palm up. If traffic is at a standstill (but no red light), I let my hands take turns which will be in my lap until we get moving again. While actually driving, I find it easier overall if I keep both hands on the wheel, otherwise I end up lop-sided when I arrive I have not played the radio in months as it distracts my attention. I do keep the car a little colder than I used to, as warmer makes me sleepy. I hope any of this may help either of you, Blessing, RA:)
Hi, BJ,
I have a pillow that I wedge between my seat and the door. I’ve been able to get it to the correct height for my left arm. I rest my right arm on the arm rest. It’s not as comfortable but it works most of the time. I also just go handicap parking placards so that when I’m not feeling well, I can park closer to my office.
I have not played the radio in months as it distracts my attention. I do keep the car a little colder than I used to, as warmer makes me sleepy. I hope any of this may help either of you, Blessing, RA:)