Driving with rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging. Pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility can affect your ability to drive. Nonetheless, changing your routine and making some changes to your vehicle can make a big difference.
In this post, I am going to share some practical tips. These tips will help you maintain your independence. They will also reduce discomfort while you are either behind the wheel or being a passenger.
This post may contain affiliate links for which I earn commissions.
Please note that all opinions are my own and are not intended to be taken as medical advice.
Be Prepared With Pain Relief Products
Wherever I go I have pain relievers with me in case I need them. There are some really nice pill containers that make it easy to do that. Remember – don’t take any medication that will make you sleepy!
Pain relief patch products stick to your body and warm with skin contact. There are many well known brands. My personal favorites are SalonPas and the Tiger Balm patches. They are ideal when it is not convenient to use an electric heating pad. If you are in pain before you even leave the house, apply an on-the-go heated patch before you leave. Relief will last for up to 12 hours.
Install a Remote Car Starter and Keyless Entry
If you live in a cold climate it is important to warm your car up first. Unfortunately, this would mean an extra trip to the car, but it doesn’t have to.
A remote car starter enables you to start and warm your car from inside your home or wherever you are. If you don’t already have power locks you can also get a remote car starter with a keyless entry . Instead of fumbling with your keys, you can just push a button to unlock your doors.
Purchase A Steering Wheel Cover
Those who suffer from arthritis of the fingers may dread driving. In fact, some may even fear the danger they put themselves and others in. If you find it difficult to grip your car’s steering wheel cover, consider buying an easy grip steering wheel cover. It is non-slipable. However, you will probably need to enlist the help of a friend or family member to install it.
Jar Openers Serve Multiple Uses
If you have arthritis in your hands, you likely already utilize rubber jar openers at home. They make gripping, twisting and turning easier. So why not keep one in your car? I always have trouble opening water bottles so an opener comes in really handy.
A rubber jar opener can also be used to unscrew your car’s gas cap. Nothing worse than stopping for gas and having to ask someone to help you – YUCK!
If you want to get fancier, they do make arthritis gas cap wrenches. They slip right over your gas cap with a easy grip handle. But, sometimes they are hard to find that will fit your exact cap. For the same price, you could easily buy 20 rubber jar openers which would accomplish the same goal.
Keep plenty of gas in your car
As mentioned above, there are special tools that will make it easier to get the gas cap off. But even with these tools it can be difficult and painful to pump your own gas. Always make sure you have plenty of gas. When you do, you can choose a convenient time to stop. Alternatively, you can enlist the help of a significant other.
There are many ways to ease travel and car use. You suffer from arthritis and are prone to pain. But, you don’t have to stay isolated. You shouldn’t live your life in fear.
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