Living with fibromyalgia can turn even the simplest daily tasks into a challenge, and driving is no exception. We understand how exhausting, painful, and frustrating it can be when your body isn’t playing ball.
We’ve been helping people with long-term conditions adapt their cars for over 25 years, and we’ve learned that a little support can go a long way. As a Motability-accredited installer and proud Which? Trusted Trader, we’re here to offer advice, tailor solutions to your specific needs, and ultimately help you stay independent.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, exploring options for the first time, or simply finding that driving has become more difficult lately, this guide is here to help. Let’s take a look at the many options available to you.
What Is Fibromyalgia and How Does It Affect Driving?
If you live with fibromyalgia, you already know how unpredictable it can be. Some days are manageable; others are filled with widespread pain, aching joints, crushing fatigue, and a foggy head. Add in nerve sensitivity, sleep problems and stiffness, and it’s easy to see how getting in and out of a car (let alone driving it) can feel overwhelming.
Common challenges we hear about from our fibromyalgia customers include:
- Pain when pressing foot pedals
- Difficulty gripping the steering wheel
- Fatigue that makes concentrating or sitting upright difficult
- Muscle stiffness or joint pain during longer journeys
- Trouble lifting mobility aids or getting in and out of the car
The truth is, fibromyalgia affects everyone a little differently, which is why we take the time to listen before recommending any adaptations. With the right support, we can help reduce strain, add comfort, and make driving easier again.
How Vehicle Adaptations Can Help You Drive More Comfortably
Vehicle adaptations are clever, often simple adjustments to your car that make it easier for you to drive or travel in it safely, comfortably, and with far less effort. Whether you need a small change or a full set of modifications, we’ll work with you to make your car suit you.
Let’s look at some of the most popular and helpful adaptations for people with fibromyalgia.
Hand Controls
If using foot pedals causes pain or fatigue, hand controls can take over. You can accelerate and brake using your hands through a range of systems. One of the most common is the push/pull lever: pull towards you to accelerate, push away to brake. Easy to learn and very intuitive.
There are also over-ring accelerators that sit just above the steering wheel and trigger throttles that only need light finger movements, ideal if your strength or grip varies.
We’ll help you find the control setup that feels right for your body and driving style.
Steering Aids
When pain affects your shoulders, arms, or wrists, turning a wheel can become a chore. Steering aids make this easier. Simple additions like a steering ball or knob allow you to steer with one hand and much less effort.
If your arm strength or mobility is limited, we can go a step further with light-touch or electronic steering systems that reduce the amount of movement and effort needed. These systems respond to even small, gentle inputs, and for many people with fibromyalgia, that can be a game-changer.
Seating Solutions
On flare-up days, getting into your car can feel like a workout. That’s why we offer swivel seats that rotate to face the door. You can just sit down and swing your legs in, without twisting, leaning, or putting pressure on sore joints.
A simple transfer plate can also make a big difference. It bridges the gap between your wheelchair (or the ground) and the car seat, so you can shuffle in with less strain.
We can even fit person hoists if you need more support, gently lifting you into position without asking too much from your body. If you travel with a carer, they can be incredibly helpful.
Hoists for Mobility Aids
If you use a wheelchair, rollator, or mobility scooter, lifting it in and out of your car boot can be exhausting. A boot hoist does the hard work for you. Just push a button, and the hoist lifts your equipment into the boot — no lifting, no twisting, no problem.
We offer models for smaller wheelchairs right up to large powered scooters, and we’ll make sure it works with your car and mobility aid.
Pedal Adjustments
If pressing pedals causes discomfort or if you have trouble using one leg more than the other, there are a few ways we can help.
- A left-foot accelerator lets you drive using your left leg instead of your right, which is perfect for people with unilateral pain.
- Pedal extensions bring the pedals closer to your seat, which can reduce strain on your knees, hips or back.
These may sound small, but for many people they make a big difference to comfort and confidence.
How the Motability Scheme Can Help Cover the Cost
If you receive Enhanced Rate Mobility PIP, Higher Rate DLA, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, or Armed Forces Independence Payment, you could be eligible for the Motability Scheme.
This brilliant scheme allows you to lease a brand-new car using your mobility allowance, and the best part is that many vehicle adaptations can be fitted at no extra cost when ordered with your Motability car.
As an official Motability partner, Able to Enable will help you choose the right adaptations and ensure everything is fitted before you collect your vehicle
The Motability lease also includes insurance, servicing, breakdown cover, and road tax, so all you need to focus on is enjoying the freedom to drive again.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry — we’re here to walk you through every step.
Get back on the Road with Able to Enable
We like to keep things simple and supportive. Here’s what working with us usually looks like:
1. Chat With Us
Whether you call, email, or pop into our showroom, we’ll start by having a friendly chat about how fibromyalgia affects you and what’s been getting in the way of driving.
2. Book a Free Consultation
We can come to your home, or you can visit us — whichever is easier. You’ll get to try out some of the equipment and ask as many questions as you like. We’ll never rush you.
3. We Coordinate Everything
If you’re using Motability, we’ll liaise with your dealer to ensure all adaptations are fitted before you pick up the car. If you’re using your own vehicle, we’ll schedule a fitting that works for you.
4. Professional Fitting and Training
Our experienced technicians will install everything safely and professionally, and we’ll show you how to use each adaptation until you’re totally confident.
5. Ongoing Support
Need an adjustment later down the line? No problem. We’re always just a phone call away.
Why Choose Able to Enable?
We’re a friendly, family-run team that genuinely cares about helping people feel independent, supported, and heard. With over 25 years of experience, we bring deep expertise and understanding to every interaction.
As a Motability-accredited installer and a Which? Trusted Trader, we offer services you can rely on with complete confidence.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to listening; we take the time to understand your needs before suggesting any solutions. Whether you visit our showroom or prefer a consultation in the comfort of your home, our advice is always free, pressure-free, and tailored to you.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch today to book your free consultation — we’re here to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
