Driving-induced knee discomfort: Reasons, indications, and additional insights

Knee pain is a common issue for many adults, and it can be either chronic or sudden. One of the lesser-known causes of knee pain is prolonged driving, which exposes individuals to various risk factors.

Driving for extended periods can lead to knee musculoskeletal pain due to factors such as prolonged sitting, whole body vibration, abnormal postures, repetitive movements, and prolonged inactivity. This pain can affect not just the knees but also other body parts, including the neck, shoulders, feet, thighs, and backs.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and a degenerative joint condition that can affect various joints, including the knees. Symptoms of OA include pain, stiffness, and a grinding or scraping noise when walking, with occasional knee buckling. The condition occurs when the cartilage between the knee joint bones breaks down, leading to pain and other symptoms.

Another condition that can cause knee pain is patellar tendinopathy (PT), an injury that affects the patellar tendon, causing gradual tendon pain and difficulty in daily activities like driving. PT is usually a sports injury, but some people who drive extensively, such as truckers and bus drivers, may also develop it due to repeated use of the knee joint, causing small tears in the tendon.

To prevent knee pain from driving related to musculoskeletal conditions, OA, and PT, there are several effective methods. These include regular stretching, optimizing posture and seat position, strengthening exercises, and using conservative recovery techniques like RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) after driving.

Stretching at every stop during long drives (ideally every 1–2 hours) can help maintain knee joint mobility and reduce stiffness. Recommended stretches include toe touches, quadriceps stretches, leg swings in figure-eight motions, and calf stretches. These improve blood flow and loosen tight muscles.

Adjusting your car seat for better posture is also essential. Sit with a soft knee bend, feet flat on the floor, and proper lumbar support (such as a small pillow behind the lower back). Avoid locking knees or fully extending the leg while driving to reduce joint strain.

Performing light bodyweight exercises regularly, such as bodyweight squats held for 5–10 seconds and calf raises, can help strengthen muscles supporting the knee joint. Strong muscles help protect against OA and tendinopathy stress.

Taking regular breaks to stand, walk, and stretch during driving or traveling can enhance circulation and prevent musculoskeletal pain from prolonged sitting or stop-go driving conditions.

Post-driving care using the RICE method helps manage inflammation and pain. Rest your leg with elevation above the heart, apply ice packs to reduce swelling for 15–20 minutes, and use compression sleeves if needed.

For underlying conditions such as OA or PT, maintaining a balance between activity and rest is critical. Avoid overexertion, use heat or cold therapy as appropriate to relieve stiffness or inflammation, and consider low-impact exercises to maintain joint function without aggravation.

One in five professional drivers experienced knee musculoskeletal pain, according to a study. Doctors can manage OA symptoms using various treatments, including physical therapy, over-the-counter or prescription pain relief medications, joint pain relief creams, weight loss therapy, partial or total knee joint replacement surgery, and other treatments. PT can be managed with physical therapy, injectable medications, or surgery to help a person regain full knee function.

If experiencing severe knee pain, inability to move the knee, limping, knee swelling after injury, a popping noise or feeling the knee give way, inability to put weight on the knee, or a tearing or popping sensation in the patellar tendon, it's important to consult a doctor immediately.

By following these preventative strategies and seeking medical advice when necessary, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of developing knee pain from driving-related musculoskeletal stresses, OA, and PT.

[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Driving and musculoskeletal pain. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/driving/art-20045858

[2] American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Knee pain: Symptoms, causes, and treatments. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/knee-pain

[3] National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. (2021). Musculoskeletal disorders in transportation workers. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/transportation/msd.html

[4] American Physical Therapy Association. (2021). Patellar tendinopathy. Retrieved from https://www.moveforwardpt.com/Resources/Details/Patellar-Tendinopathy-Patellar-Tendinitis-Jumpers-Knee-PT-Treatment

[5] National Health Service. (2021). RICE treatment for soft tissue sports injuries. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise-and-fitness/rice-treatment-for-soft-tissue-sports-injuries/

Underlying conditions like osteoarthritis and patellar tendinopathy can cause knee pain, contributing to chronic diseases.
Regular physical therapy can help manage symptoms of osteoarthritis and patellar tendinopathy, promoting health and wellness.
To prevent driving-related knee pain, incorporate stretching, improved posture, strengthening exercises, and RICE method in your routine, ensuring fitness and exercise.
Mental health is essential too; consult a healthcare professional if experiencing severe knee pain, as early intervention can aid in recovery and prevent complications.