Most drivers spend most of their time on bumpy roads while moving heavy loads. Truckers must adopt better seats and good sitting postures to curb the effects of the long hours of driving. The condition of the seats and sitting postures play a vital role in the drivers' health and determine how long they can last in the industry.

SameerVij, a Longhaul driver, acknowledged that he sometimes feels shoulder and neckpains in line of duty. He added that road conditions, load weights, and time onthe road determine the extent and frequency of pain experienced. PhysiotherapistMari Mueller noted that most of the drivers have limited time to seek medical assistanceand therefore tend to ignore the problems.

More comfortable seats

Seat manufacturers have stepped up to help the drivers by continually providing improvements to the seats to make them more comfortable. For instance, Knoedler Manufacturers Canada adopted ProBax that automatically provides the correct sitting posture. According to Gail Sokalski, eliminating the slumping posture allows for better blood and oxygen flow hence better concentration. Seats Canada uses EVC material that reduces the amount of vibration felt by the driver. The manufacturers produce seats customized to the drivers’ needs.

Dr.John Kim claimed that even if the challenges faced by drivers don’t hinder themfrom working, but make their work uncomfortable and painful at times. He addedthat most truckers complain of neck and back pains, headaches, amongst manyother unconducive habits. Ravish Garg noted that he doesn't experience thepain, but he gets stiff thigh muscles while in transit. Dr. John Kim advisedthat the drivers should exercise preventive practices to avoid adverse effectsof their work.

Massage therapist Amanda Pickering said that most drivers never take some time off, even if it's beneficial to them. Vij cited the pandemic and their tight schedule as the main factors attributing to the drivers not taking up appointments with professional medical practitioners. Some drivers are issued with routines to observe while driving to keep safe. In conclusion, all drivers must be on the frontline to ensure that they are responsible for their health.