Welcome to Oriems Fit Research Digest. Today’s focus: a global review on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in truck drivers—an often ignored but serious health issue.
The study reveals how driving takes a hidden toll on the body and how simple ergonomic changes can help.
Who Published This Research and When?
This systematic review and meta-analysis was published in BMC Public Health in 2024.
Where Was the Research Conducted?
This was a global systematic review that analyzed 15 studies from various countries, compiling data from 2,662 truck drivers. It included research from Canada, the U.S., Brazil, Sweden, Thailand, Iran, and more.
Who Funded This Research?
This study was conducted within the academic sector, with no reported conflicts of interest or industry funding, ensuring an unbiased evaluation of MSD risks in truck drivers.
Key Findings: Truck Drivers Are at High Risk of MSDs
What Is This Research Specifically About?
The study analyzed the prevalence and severity of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in truck drivers, identifying key body regions affected and risk factors associated with the profession.
Who Specifically Was This Study Done On?
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Total Participants: 2,662 truck drivers
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Demographic: Primarily male, working in long-haul and short-haul trucking
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Occupational Risk Factors Analyzed: Prolonged sitting, whole-body vibration, poor posture, manual load handling, psychological stress, and inadequate rest periods
Which Research Method Was Used?
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Systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 peer-reviewed studies
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Data was collected from various self-reported questionnaires (Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, and others)
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Meta-analysis using statistical models to calculate MSD prevalence rates
Alarming Prevalence of MSDs in Truck Drivers
What Are the Key Findings?
The study revealed that 61.75% of truck drivers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders. Here’s the breakdown by affected body regions:
| Body Region | MSD Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
| Shoulder | 31.5% |
| Neck | 25.79% |
| Lower Back | 23.46% |
| Knee | 22.26% |
| Ankle | 20.46% |
| Wrist | 20.25% |
| Upper Back | 18.65% |
| Elbow | 11.91% |
| Hip | 7.50% |
🚛 Truck drivers experience the highest prevalence of pain in the shoulders (31.5%) and lower back (23.46%)—both critical areas for maintaining proper posture and vehicle control.
Why Are Truck Drivers at High Risk for MSDs?
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Prolonged Sitting & Poor Posture: Driving for hours at a time leads to spinal compression and muscular imbalances.
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Whole-Body Vibration: Continuous exposure to vehicle vibrations contributes to back and neck pain.
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Heavy Load Handling: Loading and unloading cargo can cause shoulder and wrist strain.
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Stress & Sleep Deprivation: Long work hours and irregular sleep patterns impact muscle recovery and inflammation levels.
How Can Truck Drivers Reduce MSD Risks?
Practical Ergonomic Solutions
✅ Improve Seat Ergonomics – Adjust seat height, lumbar support, and recline angle for optimal spinal alignment.
✅ Use a Neck Pillow or Headrest Support – Reduces strain on neck and shoulders. ✅ Take Regular Movement Breaks – Short stretching sessions every 1-2 hours can relieve muscle tension.
✅ Strengthen Core & Back Muscles – Regular low-impact exercises help counteract prolonged sitting.
✅ Use an EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) Device – Studies suggest EMS can improve circulation and muscle recovery, which may help alleviate MSD symptoms in drivers.
Conclusion
The high prevalence of MSDs among truck drivers highlights the urgent need for better workplace ergonomics, periodic screenings, and muscle recovery strategies.
While this research doesn’t focus on Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), Oriems Fit EMS devices can be a valuable tool for truck drivers to reduce muscle stiffness, improve blood flow, and support recovery after long driving hours.
Research Paper Details
🔹 Original Study Title: Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Truck Drivers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
🔹 Simplified Study Title: Truck Drivers & Muscle Pain: A Global Review
🔹 Link to Study: Read the Full Research Here
What Do You Think? Join the Discussion!
🚛 Are you a truck driver who has experienced muscle pain? What steps do you take to manage it? Let us know in the comments below!
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