Back pain is the bane of truck drivers all over the country. Long hours spent in a truck seat can contribute to low back pain, a significant health problem that can have dire results for truck drivers. Better ergonomic practices and gear can help drivers avoid this potentially career-ending problem.
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability in workers under 45, and a major cause of compensation claims, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Truck drivers are at elevated risk for low back pain because they spend many hours sitting and because of the heavy physical labor they perform loading and unloading trucks.
The following ergonomic tips can help truckers avoid developing low back pain:
- Reduce the stress on your body by changing your seat position every half hour.
- If your truck vibrates, use a gel seat cushion to mitigate the vibration. Constant vibration can result in low back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
- Position your steering wheel so your elbows are close to your sides. This minimizes the amount of reaching you must do.
- Stay hydrated. If you keep hydrated your body will be better able to function and heal.
- If needed, use a towel or lumbar roll to provide additional support for the lower back. Support for the lower back can help prevent discomfort and musculoskeletal issues.
- Position mirrors so you can see them without stretching or straining.
- Adjust your seat to ensure that your knees are not higher than your hips. Sitting with your knees higher than your hips for extended periods can contribute to low back pain.
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can reduce your likelihood of developing low back pain, saving you lost work time and doctor’s bills. It’s well worth the effort.
Suburban Seating & Safety is a trusted provider of truck seats and truck interior accessories. A family-owned business, Suburban Seating & Safety has been a trusted supplier since 1947. To learn more about the company and its wide line of products from respected manufacturers, call 1-844-SAS-SEAT.
