Massachusetts Truck Drivers and Musculoskeletal Pain: Attorneys Discuss
Truck drivers in Massachusetts have a tough job that can take a toll on their well-being. They spend up to 11 hours on the road per workday, and other duties can also cause physical wear and tear.
One of the most common long-term injuries truckers sustain is musculoskeletal pain. If left untreated, this condition can worsen and even result in permanent complications. At The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl, P.C., we have seen how this type of injury can affect truck drivers.
What is musculoskeletal pain?
Musculoskeletal pain is a long-term condition that can develop from poor posture, repetitive strain or long periods of immobility. Over time, muscles can shorten and problems with spinal alignment can develop.
This type of disorder, which affects an estimated 54 percent of the adult workforce each year. can cause chronic low back pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, and depression. The back pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders alone is the second most common factor in missed work days for workers under 45 years of age. It also makes up about 25 percent of all workers’ compensation claims nationwide.
How musculoskeletal pain affects truck drivers
A survey conducted by researchers at The University of Waterloo in Canada questioned 107 male truck drivers at two Ontario truck stops. Approximately 61 of those drivers (57 percent) reported experiencing persistent pain within the 30 days prior to the survey.
The most common factors leading to these problems included:
- Long periods of sitting
- Whole body vibration
- Working in awkward postures
- Repetitive physical movements and lifting
- Level of fitness
- Overall job satisfaction
Some trucking companies have taken measures to mitigate the likelihood of drivers experiencing musculoskeletal pain. These measures include:
- Installing vibration-free seats in vehicles
- Modifying tasks
- Encouraging exercise and healthy diets
Medical treatment and recovery
The treatment for musculoskeletal pain may require:
- Anti-pain and anti-inflammatory prescription drugs
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage
- Osteopathic care
- Acupuncture
- Stretching and exercise
Making a full recovery so you can perform your job to the best of your ability may take months. If you’re concerned about the cost of medical treatment and lost wages, it’s important to discuss this matter with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl. We know how to negotiate with your employer’s insurance company for a fair settlement.
Your injury doesn’t have to be caused by a single incident. We also handle claims involving repetitive stress. If you have sustained a job-related musculoskeletal disorder, contact our law firm to learn how we can help. We put your needs first.