Hello Trucker, Mind Your Health Part 1

Experiencing this persistent back pain has been nothing short of agonizing. It dawned on me that repetitive stress injuries aren't exclusive to factory workers; they can also impact the back muscles of truck drivers. Spending long hours in the same position behind the wheel of a big rig takes a toll, causing muscle fatigue and discomfort. This constant strain could create chronic back pain problems, an inability to work, and a potential loss of income. 

According to truckerdaily, the two most common causes of back pain in truck drivers are sciatica and spinal compression. “These two conditions happen when the body remains in a seated position for a very long time. Your spinal cord then compresses from the prolonged subjection to this position. Similarly, prolonged sitting causes the sciatic nerve, which spans from your back to your leg, to compress. This compression leads to the pain you feel in your legs and your lower back.Other common causes of back pain in truck drivers are tension headaches, neck pain, and shoulder irritation”. 

 Here are top tips to keep back pain at bay.

1. Are their seats comfortable?

Invest in better seat cushions or extra paddings to help ensure better posture. This would help in discouraging back pain from driving for extended periods. as well as absorb some of the constant vibrations truck drivers endure as they are driving.

2. Assume a proper seating posture

If the seat is not the right distance from the steering wheel, one of the two should be adjusted. You should never have to hunch over or stretch just to reach the wheel and operate the rig. Make sure the wheel is always in comfortable reach.

A poor sitting posture can cause your backbones to compress in awkward manners that are sure to lead to back

3. Light exercises and stretches go a long away,

Whether before, during or after they get behind the wheel, Stretching and exercising helps increase blood flow and raises alertness levels, important for when they are behind the wheel. You could break your trip into hourly bits or bi-hourly bits. At every break, step out of the cab and do some stretches. You can also take a walk around your truck and inspect it in the process.

Start with your arms and wrists when you stretch. Next, stretch your neck by turning your head from one side to the other. Also, make a 360 degrees motion with your head to loosen up your stiff neck. Stretch your back next. Curve your back in an inward “C” with your chest arching towards your chin. Stepping out of your cab stretches your feet and lower back. 

Hi-Point Truck Sales for all your Trucking Needs!

Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet with trucks that have comfortable seats or simply getting your own truck, you can rely on Hi-Point Truck Sales. We would love to assist you in buying your next truck and finding the best financial option for you. Give us a call on 866-766-8484 or contact us via www.hipointtrucksales.com.