Being a truck driver is not easy. You always need to think about getting to your target location in time. You encounter harsh weather sometimes, and sometimes you find yourself in dangerous situations.
You need to remain professional at all times, no matter the situation on the road, angry dispatchers, or disrespectful clients. And on top of it, you need to think about both your safety and the safety of other people on the road. That can be such a pain sometimes… but it is not the only pain most truckers encounter on the road.
Back pain is notorious among truck drivers. All we mentioned above seems 10 times worse when you are in constant pain. Yet don’t worry, we’ve got your back. We can’t change your work environment which will remain sedentary but we can… back you up with some useful tips.
Follow our guide and the pain will go away.
What causes back pain?
It is a well-known fact that a sedentary lifestyle leads to various health issues. When you are sitting all day, it’s bad news for both your joints and your muscles.
Our bodies are made to move. To be active. When you run on the bus, climb the stairs – your body reacts positively. You get your blood flowing through your veins, your capillaries dilating and more oxygen is distributed through your entire body.
Sedentary job + less oxygen = bad news
Every type of exercise matters if you want to lead a long and healthy life. Sitting for a prolonged time it’s not good, especially if you are stuck for a long time in your truck cabin. When we sit down, our body assumes the C shape.
While we are in this position, our bodies don’t get enough blood flow, therefore, not enough oxygen. That eventually leads to sore muscles, under-exercised joints, ligaments, and tendons. In the end, it will eventually cause back pain that is not going away.
Yet even worse news is that your entire body is affected but the back is there to take the heat for the entire team. When you are driving your truck – your legs, feet, and arms are exposed to vibrations and it can also get really painful. So what can you do?
Drive with more style!
You will be amazed just how pleasant your ride can be if you find the right place and the right support for your back. First, you need to empty your pockets. Put your wallet or keys somewhere else. After that, treat yourself with a seat worthy of kings.
Hey, you have your own personal throne in your cabin so it needs to be comfy. Think about a gel seat cushion or memory foam seat, it won’t break your bank and it will literally save your back. When we mentioned foam – use a foam steering wheel. You can use a pillow or towel to get more support.
While driving, try switching your positions every 30 to 60 minutes and change the hand positions every once in a while. Believe it or not, this is the most important step. Every slight change can make a big difference.
Want to feel cooler?
If you are driving the reefer, you are synonymous with coolness on the wheels, but what about the regular drivers? Encountering ice on the road is never a good thing except in one case. Ice can help you relieve your back pain!
Back pain often comes backed up with the inflammation so the ice can help you with relieving that pain, numbing the nerves, and reducing the swelling.
It is best for you to keep a cooler in your truck ready so you can relieve the pain much quicker. You can wrap the ice pack in a towel and hold it on your back and you will feel relieved instantly.
Truck stops to save the day
Truck stops are life saviors in situations like these. Use truck stops to rest and revitalize. It is okay to take a break at least twice a day. There you can exercise. Stretching is very useful to do while resting at the truck stop. Your back will be thankful that you took the time to exercise. Also, in order to keep your body healthy try avoiding fast foods and try being more hydrated on the road.
Remember that there is no such easy solution to this problem. Try making some subtle and slight changes at first and don’t give up. Your health and wellbeing should be a priority as well on the road.
If you are new to this field and this article hasn’t turned you to change your mind, then it’s time to fill out the application or give us a call!
