Place the lap belt low across the pelvis, not the abdomen, so an impact is caught by the bones of the pelvis rather than your stomach and internal organs. The upper belt passes over the clavicle and sternum, never the neck or shoulder, and never under the arm; routing stress through bone rather than soft tissue helps prevent twisting in an impact.
Opposite-arm buckling. Reaching for the belt with the same-side arm puts your shoulder into its closed-pack position. Reach across with the opposite arm instead, turning from your body, not your shoulder.
Seat belts: the bone rule and opposite-arm buckling
Steering wheel and airbag distance
Airbags need 10 to 12 inches to work correctly. Stationary check: shoulder blades pressed into the seat, straight arm, your wrist should bend over the top of the wheel. Driving, your arms should bend around 120 degrees. Set wheel height for a clear dashboard view with palms just below shoulder level.
Grip: seven and four, light fingertips. People with shoulder and neck problems often prefer the lower seven-and-four hand position over nine-and-three to reduce neck and shoulder work. Grip with fingers and fingertips, as light as possible, both hands on the wheel; one-handed steering makes one shoulder overwork and can twist the spine.
Airbag distance and the straight-arm wrist checkWheel height, seven-and-four grip, light fingertips
Road-day tips
Before you go: listen to your body; if you are especially fatigued or in pain, consider postponing. Plan routes with smoother surfaces and fewer bumps. Place cushions strategically for your lower back, and consider neck supports.
On the road: take short breaks on long drives to walk and move gently. Use deep breathing to manage pain and stay settled. Keep knees away from the console and door. Hold your arms below shoulder level and rest your elbow on the console or door, which is exactly where your elbow-shelf props shine.
Eight more driving tips for EDS bodies
that is the whole setup. your seat works for you now.
