Most ergonomic hand position on steering wheel: 8 and 4 o'clock

Compounding ergonomic issues: headrest + steering positions!  If you are struggling with neck pain from headrest angles, it's important to realize that the hand position on the steering wheel can exacerbate the already poor seating ergonomics. The 10 -2 o'clock position is not ergonomic  and is actually dangerous and no longer recommended.

Introduction

Hand position on the steering wheel is typically described in terms of a analog clock face.  For digital era folks, here is the diagram: 

10 & 2 o'clock position:   DANGER!

Prior to power steering and airbag technology, this position was once the guidance.  It is no longer recommended and is considered a safety risk due to the following reasons:

• Airbag Deployment: Airbags deploy upward and with significant force in a collision. If your hands are on the upper part of the steering wheel, the airbag can push your arms into your face and head, causing severe injuries like broken bones, lacerations, or even amputations.

• Even at low speeds, airbags can deploy from sometimes minor fender benders, so it's important to try to retrain your habits away from this position.

• Reduced Control: This position can limit your range of motion and make it harder to react quickly in emergency situations. It can also lead to oversteering and loss of control.

• Poor Ergonomics:  While driving in this position may feel natural, it can actually contribute to the ergonomic issues associated with elevated arm positions. Here's how:
  1. Elevated Arm Position: Holding your arms up at 10 and 2 for extended periods can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort in your shoulders, upper arms, and neck.
  2. Reduced Blood Flow: The elevated position can compress blood vessels, potentially reducing blood flow to your arms and hands. This can lead to tingling, numbness, and coldness in your extremities.
  3. Shoulder Impingement: This position can put stress on the shoulder joint, potentially contributing to shoulder impingement syndrome over time.

9 & 3 o'clock position:   RECOMMENDED

This position is recommended for safety and ergonomics due to:

1. Safety: In the event of airbag deployment, your hands and arms are less likely to be injured.
2. Control: It provides a balanced grip and good leverage for smooth, controlled steering maneuvers.
3. Comfort: This position promotes a relaxed shoulder and arm posture, reducing strain and fatigue on long drives.

8 & 4 o'clock position:   Fair Control  Most ERGONOMIC

• This is a slightly less recommended position for Control, however it offers even better Ergonomics due to a lower arm position than 9-3.

• During active traffic situations it is recommended to use a 9-3 position for control, but to switch to 8-4 during calm steady lengthy drives to take advantage of it's improved ergonomics.

Compounding factors: headrest + steering positions

Headrests and hand-position can combine for a double-whammy of neck and shoulder pain!  Here's how:

1. Increased Neck Strain: When a headrest pushes your head forward, it forces your neck into an unnatural, forward-leaning posture. This puts additional strain on your neck muscles and can lead to pain and discomfort. If your arms are also elevated due to hand positioning, this further compounds the strain on your neck, as your entire upper body is forced into a forward-leaning position.

2. Altered Spinal Alignment: A headrest pushing your head forward can disrupt the natural alignment of your spine, leading to a cascading effect of postural problems throughout your body. This can affect your shoulders, upper back, and lower back, potentially exacerbating the issues caused by elevated arm positions.

3. Reduced Comfort and Increased Fatigue: The combination of a forward-leaning head posture and elevated arms can quickly lead to discomfort and fatigue while driving. This can affect your concentration and reaction time, potentially making you a less safe driver.