Factors contributing to low back pain among professional drivers: A review of current literature and possible ergonomic controls

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lyons, Jane

Affiliations: 54 Mohawk Drive, Portsmouth, RI 02871, USA

Abstract: It is suggested that professional drivers are at an increased risk for low back pain and injury due to a variety of factors such as whole body vibration, prolonged sitting, awkward postures, lifting and carrying, and psychosocial issues. Ergonomics can play an important role in the reduction of risk of injury to the professional driver by implementing modifications to the work place (engineering controls), changes in administrative and management practice (administrative controls), and education of the worker (work practice controls). A review of the literature of the etiology of low back pain and injury among professional drivers is presented, and possible ergonomic controls have been recommended.

Keywords: professional drivers, low back pain

Journal: Work, vol. 19, no. 1, pp. 95-102, 2002