National Seating has introduced the BackCycler for its line of truck seats. The optional device is designed to provide “continuous passive motion” to help reduce the back pain often experienced by many truck drivers when behind the wheel.

According to Logan Mullinix, National’s vp of R&D, the technology used in the BackCycler was developed under government contract at the University of Vermont.

“It’s a simple technology,” he said, explaining the system includes an electrical on/off switch and a sealed bag mounted inside the seat back. By activating the BackCycler, air is slowly cycled in and out of the bag throughout a driver’s shift to prevent compression of the spine while in a sitting position.

It’s that compression, Mullinix noted, that can cause strained muscles and ligaments; can squeeze spinal discs toward sensitive nerves, and can cut circulation through the discs, all of which can result in back pain.

According to Mullinix, by providing continuous spinal motion, the BackCycler reduces muscle and ligament strain; allows alternating muscles and ligaments to share strain/rests cycles; reduces disc pressure against the nerves; and improves disc circulation.

The BackCycler will be offered as an option on National seats and will be available as a retrofit kit.

www.nationalseating.com.