Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/723417
September 2016 | Overdrive | 41 and then stayed low for the remaining three hours," says Saurabh Thosar, a researcher at Oregon Health & Sci- ence University. Extended sitting also has been linked to metabolic syndrome, a group of factors that increases an individual's risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke and more. These factors include high triglyceride levels, low HDL cholester- ol levels, high blood pressure, high fast- ing blood sugar and a larger waistline, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. the effects of vibrations on the lower back. "Whole-body vibrations increase the load on the spine, which causes mus- cles to become tired and sore," the report says. "Pain increases fatigue." Custom seats from other makers such as Bostrom, Seats Inc. and National Seating also offer features to help smooth out vibrations and bumps. For those unable to afford a custom seat, there are ways to modify a stan- dard seat. Putting a rolled towel on the small of your back provides lumbar support. Likewise, a towel or small pillow placed behind your neck can add support. Ensure seat height, seat back incline and distance from the floor pedals conform to ideal positioning. Some European countries have regu- lations that limit how long workers can be exposed to such vibrations. The United States lacks similar regulations. OverdriveOnline.com poll: 397 respondents How do you feel spending prolonged hours in the driver's seat affects your health? 47% It's causing serious damage 30% It's causing slight damage 12% It's having no effect on my health 9% I'm not sure 2% It's improved my health Three out of four respondents believe their occupation's sedentary lifestyle is hurting their health. In a separate recent survey of Truckers News readers, respondents were asked which equipment features were most important. Company drivers ranked high-quality seats above every other choice, including auxiliary power unit, late-model truck, large sleeper, satellite TV and other items.