It doesn’t take much to imagine how sitting for long stretches of time might negatively impact your health. Being unable to change your position or having to wait long for a bathroom, are just some examples of routine issues that truck drivers regularly encounter as they do their job.
The CDC has also determined that truck drivers are twice as likely to be overweight or obese, and this alone is reason to worry because it can cause other health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
What happens to your body when you sit in the same position for long stretches of time?
Several studies have been conducted to analyze the consequences of sitting for hours at a time and over thirty-five chronic conditions and diseases have been identified.
Even though other occupations, such as those that require that you sit in your office chair for many hours every day have also been associated with some conditions, the degree to which they impact people is different simply due to the fact that office workers can get up and move around any time. And these days many work using desks that can be adjusted up or down, allowing them to work while standing up.
Here is a short list of the conditions identified as affecting truck drivers simply due to the nature of their job:
- Obesity
- Sleep apnea
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Hypertension
- Heart rhythm problems
- Heart failure
- Musculoskeletal problems such as shoulder and back pain
- Arthritis
- Deep vein thrombosis
Many of the above diseases and conditions are related to each other, many are the consequence of another one being present, and many give way to other conditions not listed here.
What feature do truck drivers list as the most important one to prevent some of the above conditions?
Not surprisingly, a survey where drivers were asked this question revealed that what they consider the best aid to help them maintain their health is a high-quality seat.
They know that frequent and excessive vibrations while on the road can take a toll not only on their back and neck but also on their internal organs. Good shock absorption in a seat can reduce vibrations in a significant way.
Can truck drivers take other preventive actions?
Stretching, doing abdominal crunches, strengthening their core, and other exercises can definitely help. But keeping hydrated is also important as is being aware of their posture when they drive.
Truck Drivers’ Health Issues Can Lead to Accidents on the Road
If you are a truck driver that can identify with the health problems that have been discussed above, you should talk to your trucking company and make them aware of the situation before you are involved in an accident.
You may feel you are sleep deprived, your muscles are tired, and not responding the way they should or your weight has made it uncomfortable for you to be seated in the same position for long stretches of time. Whatever the reason, talking about it now may prevent an accident with terrible consequences in the future.
If you need legal help now because you have been injured in a truck accident and don’t know where to turn, 1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service that can put you in touch with an established, aggressive legal professional.
