The biomechanics of vibration and low back pain

Am J Ind Med. 1993 Apr;23(4):577-88. doi: 10.1002/ajim.4700230406.

Abstract

This work is a review of the mechanical factors related to low back pain production in a vibration environment. The sitting posture is an extreme orientation for the lumbar intervertebral disc that 1) increases its internal pressure, 2) increases its anteroposterior shear flexibility, while: 3) decreasing its resistance to buckling instability and 4) stressing the posterior region of the disc. Vibration is an additional mechanical stressor. Several studies suggest that the following preventive measures be taken to reduce the risk of low back pain due to driving: 1) minimize the vibration reaching the driver, 2) avoid lifting or bending immediately following driving, and 3) walk around for a few minutes following driving.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Automobile Driving
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Humans
  • Low Back Pain / etiology*
  • Low Back Pain / physiopathology
  • Low Back Pain / prevention & control
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / physiopathology
  • Posture / physiology
  • Vibration / adverse effects*