Lumbar and seat cushions reduce whole-body vibration exposures in car driving

Abstract

Whole-body vibration (WBV) has been associated with risk factors of low back pain among exposed drivers. The present study examined the efficacy of the use of lumbar cushion and seat cushion in reducing exposure to WBV. A total of 24 male participants completed 24 experimental sessions, a combination of two levels of rotational amplitude, three levels of rotational frequency and four levels of seating conditions. In each session, they were exposed to a five-minute vibration stimulus. The main and interaction effects of rotational amplitude, rotational frequency, and seating condition were significant (p < 0.01). The use of lumbar cushion and seat cushion reduced WBV exposure up to 12%, and the decline was more substantial at higher rotational frequency (i.e., higher speed) and higher rotational amplitude (i.e., rougher road condition). Lumbar and seat cushions can be used to improve driving health aspect in occupational setting.