‘Unfavorable working conditions’ pave the way to trucker MSDs: study

Kerman, Iran — More than 3 out of 5 truck drivers have a musculoskeletal disorder – largely as a result of work-related risk factors – results of a recent research review show.

Researchers at Kerman University of Medical Sciences analyzed 15 studies on MSDs in trucking that involved almost 2,700 drivers. They found that 61.8% of the drivers had an MSD. The most common parts of the body affected: Shoulder (31.5%), neck (25.8%), lower back (23.5%) and knee (22.3%).

MSDs include tendinitis, back strains and sprains, and carpal tunnel syndrome. The National Safety Council says MSDs are the most common workplace injury and the leading cause of worker disability, early retirement and limitations to gainful employment.

The researchers say multiple risk factors inherent to truck driving raise the chances of drivers developing an MSD. Among them:

• Long-term static postures
• Awkward postures, including turning the neck and trunk forward and sideways
• Whole-body vibration
• Intense shaking
• Pulling, lifting and carrying loads

“To decrease the prevalence of MSDs among truck drivers, it is recommended to develop and implement essential training programs, ergonomic interventions and regular evaluations of the work environment,” the researchers write.

The study was published in the journal BMC Public Health.