The drivers seat. If you’re a trucker then pretty much 100% of your work day is spent in that seat. All that sitting has consequences to your overall health but more specifically leads to lower back pain. In fact, truck drivers will suffer from lower back pain at four times the national average rate. Lower back pain is caused by prolonged exposure to poor posture and the vibrations of the vehicle is a major factor.
This means it is important for you to be proactive in maintaining the health and strength of your back. There are stretches you can do and back braces you can get that will help with your posture and the strength of your spine, however, a well-designed seat will help immensely with maintaining your back and unfortunately not much can help with how your body handles the vibrations and bumps of the drive other than a solid driver’s seat. Here is our breakdown of what you should look for in a big rig seat:
Ergonomics
One seat does not fit all. The importance of having a seat that will support you ergonomically can not be understated. Ergonomic support means your seat promotes a healthy and safe posture that will minimize the stress to your back from sitting for long periods of time. To do this, a seat should offer lumbar support, adjustability, changeable seat height range, and adjustable armrests so you can position yourself for good posture that will ease the strain on your back.
Suspension
Life on the road is bumpy. You want to be sure that your seat has a top-notch suspension system. Having good suspension in your seat is what is going to save your back from all the vibrations, bumps and movement your body would typically endure.
Adjust Your Seat
Most seats have several adjustment points that can be manipulated to your specific needs that go unused. Make sure you take the time to get to know your seat and learn all the adjustment points so you can sit correctly and comfortably.
Bonus Features
Bonus features are what takes a great seat to a Cadillac seat. We’re talking leather, heated and cooled seating, adjustable armrests and a built-in massage cushion. These features certainly aren’t necessary but definitely puts the cherry on top of a nice new big rig seat.
As stated previously, life on the road is tough on your back. Upgrading to a well-designed seat that promotes good posture and supports the health of your back will definitely make the job easier. If you need help with finding the right chair, our friendly staff at North Dixie Truck and Trailer will make sure you walk out with what you need. Call us today at 419-222-8785 or, better yet, stop by our store at 2084 North Dixie Highway in Lima, Ohio.
Sources: http://www.simplebackpain.com/truckdriverbackpain.html#axzz48SYP9oon