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Carl J, Grüne E, Popp J, Hartung V, Pfeifer K. Implementation and dissemination of physical activity-related health competence in vocational nursing training: study protocol for a cluster-randomized controlled intervention trial. Trials 2024; 25:322. [PMID: 38750590 PMCID: PMC11094863 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08153-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the nursing sector gains growing importance in an aging society, students representing the future workforce often show insufficient health. Acknowledging the health-enhancing effects of adequate physical activity, the educational system in Bavaria, Germany, has recently integrated the promotion of physical activity-related health competence (PAHCO) into the nursing curriculum. However, it cannot be assumed that PAHCO has sufficiently permeated the educational practices and routines of the nursing schools. Therefore, the goal of the present study is to examine and compare the effectiveness as well as implementation of different intervention approaches to address PAHCO in the Bavarian nursing school system. METHODS We randomly assign 16 nursing schools (cluster-based) to four study arms (bottom-up, top-down led by teachers, top down led by external physical activity experts, control group). Schools in intervention group 1 (IG-1) develop multicomponent inventions to target PAHCO via cooperative planning (preparation, planning, and implementation phase). Intervention groups 2 and 3 (IG-2, IG-3) receive both an expert-based intervention (developed through intervention mapping) via trained mediators to address PAHCO. External physical activity experts deliver the structured PAHCO intervention in IG-2, while teachers from the nursing schools themselves conduct the PAHCO intervention in IG-3. In line with a hybrid effectiveness implementation trial, we apply questionnaire-based pre-post measurements across all conditions (sample size calculation: nfinal = 636) to examine the effectiveness of the intervention approaches and, simultaneously, draw on questionnaires, interview, and protocol data to examine their implementation. We analyze quantitative effectiveness data via linear models (times-group interaction), and implementation data using descriptive distributions and content analyses. CONCLUSION The study enables evidence-based decisions about the suitability of three intervention approaches to promote competencies for healthy, physically active lifestyles among nursing students. The findings inform dissemination activities to effectively reach all 185 schools of the Bavarian nursing system. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical trials NCT05817396. Registered on April 18, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Carl
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Eva Grüne
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Johanna Popp
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Verena Hartung
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klaus Pfeifer
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Berger M, Bertrand AM, Robert T, Chèze L. Measuring objective physical activity in people with chronic low back pain using accelerometers: a scoping review. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1236143. [PMID: 38022769 PMCID: PMC10646390 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1236143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Accelerometers can be used to objectively measure physical activity. They could be offered to people with chronic low back pain (CLBP) who are encouraged to maintain an active lifestyle. The aim of this study was to examine the use of accelerometers in studies of people with CLBP and to synthesize the main results regarding the measurement of objective physical activity. Methods A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Relevant studies were collected from 4 electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINHAL, Web of Science) between January 2000 and July 2023. Two reviewers independently screened all studies and extracted data. Results 40 publications out of 810 citations were included for analysis. The use of accelerometers in people with CLBP differed across studies; the duration of measurement, physical activity outcomes and models varied, and several limitations of accelerometry were reported. The main results of objective physical activity measures varied and were sometimes contradictory. Thus, they question the validity of measurement methods and provide the opportunity to discuss the objective physical activity of people with CLBP. Conclusions Accelerometers have the potential to monitor physical performance in people with CLBP; however, important technical limitations must be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Berger
- Occupational Therapy Department (HETSL | HES-SO), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Univ Eiffel, LBMC UMR_T 9406, Lyon, France
| | - Anne Martine Bertrand
- Occupational Therapy Department (HETSL | HES-SO), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Robert
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Univ Eiffel, LBMC UMR_T 9406, Lyon, France
| | - Laurence Chèze
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Univ Eiffel, LBMC UMR_T 9406, Lyon, France
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3
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Porta M, Porceddu S, Leban B, Casu G, Mura GM, Campagna M, Pau M. Characterization of upper limb use in health care workers during regular shifts: A quantitative approach based on wrist-worn accelerometers. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2023; 112:104046. [PMID: 37267772 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.104046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of upper limb (UL) work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) among health care workers (HCWs), little is known about their relationship with exposure to biomechanical risk factors. This study aimed to assess UL activity features under actual working conditions using two wrist-worn accelerometers. Accelerometric data were processed to obtain duration, intensity, and asymmetry of UL use in 32 HCWs during the execution of commonly performed tasks (e.g., patient hygiene, transfer, and meal distribution) within a regular shift. The results show that such tasks are characterized by significantly different patterns of UL use, in particular, higher intensities and larger asymmetries were observed respectively for patient hygiene and meal distribution. The proposed approach appears, thus, suitable to discriminate tasks characterized by different UL motion patterns. Future studies could benefit from the integration of such measures with self-reported workers' perception to elucidate the relationship between dynamic UL movements and WRMSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Porta
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Simona Porceddu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Bruno Leban
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Casu
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni M Mura
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Italy
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Chen H, Schall MC, Fethke NB. Gyroscope vector magnitude: A proposed method for measuring angular velocities. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2023; 109:103981. [PMID: 36739779 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.103981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
High movement velocities are among the primary risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Ergonomists have commonly used two methods to calculate angular movement velocities of the upper arms using inertial measurement units (accelerometers and gyroscopes). Generalized velocity is the speed of movement traveled on the unit sphere per unit time. Inclination velocity is the derivative of the postural inclination angle relative to gravity with respect to time. Neither method captures the full extent of upper arm angular velocity. We propose a new method, the gyroscope vector magnitude (GVM), and demonstrate how GVM captures angular velocities around all motion axes and more accurately represents the true angular velocities of the upper arm. We use optical motion capture data to demonstrate that the previous methods for calculating angular velocities capture 89% and 77% relative to our proposed method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard Chen
- Industrial & Systems Engineering and Engineering Management Department, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
| | - Mark C Schall
- Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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5
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Lind CM, Abtahi F, Forsman M. Wearable Motion Capture Devices for the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Ergonomics-An Overview of Current Applications, Challenges, and Future Opportunities. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23094259. [PMID: 37177463 PMCID: PMC10181376 DOI: 10.3390/s23094259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a major contributor to disability worldwide and substantial societal costs. The use of wearable motion capture instruments has a role in preventing WMSDs by contributing to improvements in exposure and risk assessment and potentially improved effectiveness in work technique training. Given the versatile potential for wearables, this article aims to provide an overview of their application related to the prevention of WMSDs of the trunk and upper limbs and discusses challenges for the technology to support prevention measures and future opportunities, including future research needs. The relevant literature was identified from a screening of recent systematic literature reviews and overviews, and more recent studies were identified by a literature search using the Web of Science platform. Wearable technology enables continuous measurements of multiple body segments of superior accuracy and precision compared to observational tools. The technology also enables real-time visualization of exposures, automatic analyses, and real-time feedback to the user. While miniaturization and improved usability and wearability can expand the use also to more occupational settings and increase use among occupational safety and health practitioners, several fundamental challenges remain to be resolved. The future opportunities of increased usage of wearable motion capture devices for the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders may require more international collaborations for creating common standards for measurements, analyses, and exposure metrics, which can be related to epidemiologically based risk categories for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Mikael Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Farhad Abtahi
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Mikael Forsman
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden
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Hoareau D, Fan X, Abtahi F, Yang L. Evaluation of In-Cloth versus On-Skin Sensors for Measuring Trunk and Upper Arm Postures and Movements. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:3969. [PMID: 37112309 PMCID: PMC10142577 DOI: 10.3390/s23083969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Smart workwear systems with embedded inertial measurement unit sensors are developed for convenient ergonomic risk assessment of occupational activities. However, its measurement accuracy can be affected by potential cloth artifacts, which have not been previously assessed. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the accuracy of sensors placed in the workwear systems for research and practice purposes. This study aimed to compare in-cloth and on-skin sensors for assessing upper arms and trunk postures and movements, with the on-skin sensors as the reference. Five simulated work tasks were performed by twelve subjects (seven women and five men). Results showed that the mean (±SD) absolute cloth-skin sensor differences of the median dominant arm elevation angle ranged between 1.2° (±1.4) and 4.1° (±3.5). For the median trunk flexion angle, the mean absolute cloth-skin sensor differences ranged between 2.7° (±1.7) and 3.7° (±3.9). Larger errors were observed for the 90th and 95th percentiles of inclination angles and inclination velocities. The performance depended on the tasks and was affected by individual factors, such as the fit of the clothes. Potential error compensation algorithms need to be investigated in future work. In conclusion, in-cloth sensors showed acceptable accuracy for measuring upper arm and trunk postures and movements on a group level. Considering the balance of accuracy, comfort, and usability, such a system can potentially be a practical tool for ergonomic assessment for researchers and practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Hoareau
- Department of Mechatronics, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, 35170 Bruz, France
- Laboratoire SATIE, CNRS UMR 8029, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, 35170 Bruz, France
| | - Xuelong Fan
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 4, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Farhad Abtahi
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Hälsovägen 11C, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Liyun Yang
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 4, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Hälsovägen 11C, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
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Development and evaluation of a new assistive device for low back load reduction in caregivers: an experimental study. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19134. [PMID: 36351943 PMCID: PMC9646712 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21800-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain among healthcare professionals is associated with the manual handling of patients. Some bed features for turning and repositioning have been developed; however, the load during patient care remains heavy. We developed a device to reduce low back load in caregivers during patient bedside care and evaluated it objectively and subjectively from a caregiver's perspective using a randomised crossover study. Overall, 28 clinical nurses and care workers were randomly assigned to two interventional groups: administering care with (Device method) and without (Manual method) the device in an experimental room. We measured the caregiver's trunk flexion angle using inertial measurement units and video recording during care and then defined a trunk flexion angle of > 45° as the threshold; the variables were analysed using linear mixed models. Subsequently, participants responded to a survey regarding the usability of the device. Trunk flexion time and percentage of time were 26.5 s (95% confidence interval: 14.1 s, 38.9 s) (p < 0.001) and 23.0% (95% confidence interval: 16.4%, 29.6%) (p < 0.001) lower, respectively, in the Device group than in the Manual group. Furthermore, caregivers evaluated the care they could administer with the device as being better than that associated with manual care.
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Forsman M, Fan X, Rhen IM, Lind CM. Mind the gap - development of conversion models between accelerometer- and IMU-based measurements of arm and trunk postures and movements in warehouse work. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 105:103841. [PMID: 35917697 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sensor type (accelerometers only versus inertial measurement units, IMUs) and angular velocity computational method (inclination versus generalized velocity) have been shown to affect the measurements of arm and trunk movements. This study developed models for conversions between accelerometer and IMU measurements of arm and trunk inclination and between accelerometer and IMU measurements of inclination and generalized (arm) velocities. Full-workday recordings from accelerometers and IMUs of arm and trunk postures and movements from 38 warehouse workers were used to develop 4 angular (posture) and 24 angular velocity (movement) conversion models for the distributions of the data. A power function with one coefficient and one exponent was used, and it correlated well (r2 > 0.999) in all cases to the average curves comparing one measurement with another. These conversion models facilitate the comparison and merging of measurements of arm and trunk movements collected using the two sensor types and the two computational methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Forsman
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-141 57, Huddinge, Sweden; IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE-113 65, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xuelong Fan
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ida-Märta Rhen
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE-113 65, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Industrial and Materials Science, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carl Mikael Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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Asadi H, Simons MC, Breur GJ, Yu D. Characterizing exposure to physical risk factors during veterinary surgery with wearable sensors: a pilot study. IISE Trans Occup Ergon Hum Factors 2022; 10:151-160. [PMID: 36008924 DOI: 10.1080/24725838.2022.2117252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Occupational ApplicationsVeterinarians provide comprehensive health services for animals, but despite exposure to similar occupational and safety hazards as medical physicians, physical risk factors for these doctors and healthcare teams have not been characterized. In this pilot study, we used wearable sensor technology and showed that veterinary surgeons commonly experience static and demanding postures while performing soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries. Observations showed that muscle activation was highest in the right trapezius. Job factors such as surgical role (attending vs. assisting) and surgical specialty (soft tissue vs. orthopedics) appeared to influence exposure to physical risk factors. These findings suggest a need to consider the unique demands of surgical specialties in order to address the key risk factors impacting injury risks among veterinarians. For example, static postures may be a priority for soft tissue surgeons, while tools that reduce force requirements are more pressing for orthopedic surgeons.Technical AbstractBackground: Although musculoskeletal fatigue, pain, and injuries are commonly reported among surgeons in veterinary medicine, few studies have objectively characterized the exposure to physical risk factors among veterinary surgeons.Purpose: This study aimed to characterize muscle activation and postures of the neck and shoulders during live veterinary surgeries in the soft tissue and orthopedic specialties.Methods: Forty-four ergonomic exposure assessments (exposures) were collected during 26 surgical procedures across five surgeons. Exposures were collected from both soft tissue (n = 23) and orthopedic (n = 21) specialties. Physical risk factors were characterized by: 1) directly measuring muscle activation and posture of the neck and shoulders, using surface electromyography and inertial measurement units, respectively; and 2) collecting self-reported workload, pain, and stiffness.Results: Across the 44 exposures, neck and back symptoms respectively worsened after the surgery in 27% and 14% of the exposures. Veterinary surgeons exhibited neck postures involving a mean of 17° flexion during the surgical procedures. Static postures were common, occurring during 53-80% of the procedures. Compared to soft tissue procedures (e.g., 13.2% MVC in the right trapezius), higher muscle activity was observed during orthopaedic procedures (e.g., 27.6% MVC in the right trapezius).Conclusions: This pilot study showed that physical risk factors (i.e., muscle activity and posture of the neck/shoulder) can be measured using wearable sensors during live veterinary surgeries. The observed risk factors were similar to those documented for medical physicians. Further studies are needed to bring awareness to opportunities for improving workplace ergonomics in veterinary medicine and surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Asadi
- School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Micha C Simons
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Gert J Breur
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Denny Yu
- School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Porta M, Porceddu S, Mura GM, Campagna M, Pau M. Continuous assessment of trunk posture in healthcare workers assigned to wards with different MAPO index. ERGONOMICS 2022:1-11. [PMID: 35972215 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2113920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Healthcare professionals generally experience an above-average incidence of low back disorders (LBDs) compared with workers of other professions, and its level of risk is commonly assessed using observational methods such as the MAPO method (Movement and Assistance of Hospital Patients). In this study, we continuously monitored the trunk posture of 30 healthcare workers using a single inertial sensor to: (1) understand whether the MAPO classification is effective in adequately discriminating the risk associated with the time spent in non-neutral trunk postures and (2) characterise the variability of biomechanical exposure among workers employed in wards with the same MAPO index. The results substantially confirm the validity of the MAPO approach in discriminating among wards characterised by different levels of biomechanical exposure associated with the risk of developing LBDs. However, they also highlight the need to assess workers' exposure on an individual basis due to the high intra-group variability.Practitioner summary: Employing a quantitative measurement setup to monitor trunk posture along with an observational method (ie MAPO) can identify the existence of criticalities or the poor application of ergonomic recommendations given during the training of healthcare workers even in hospital wards characterised by little or no risk of developing low back disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Porta
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Porceddu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni M Mura
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Zhang X, Schall MC, Chen H, Gallagher S, Davis GA, Sesek R. Manufacturing worker perceptions of using wearable inertial sensors for multiple work shifts. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 98:103579. [PMID: 34507084 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Wearable inertial sensors may be used to objectively quantify exposure to some physical risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders. However, concerns regarding their potential negative effects on user safety and satisfaction remain. This study characterized the self-reported daily discomfort, distraction, and burden associated with wearing inertial sensors on the upper arms, trunk, and dominant wrist of 31 manufacturing workers collected over 15 full work shifts. Results indicated that the workers considered the devices as generally comfortable to wear, not distracting, and not burdensome to use. Exposure to non-neutral postures (discomfort, right arm, beta = 0.02; trunk, beta = -0.01), non-cyclic tasks (distraction, beta = -0.26), and higher body mass indices (discomfort, beta = 0.05; distraction, beta = 0.02) contributed to statistically significant (p < 0.05), albeit practically small increases in undesirable ratings. For instance, for each additional percentage of time working with the right arm elevated ≥60°, self-reported discomfort ratings increased 0.02 cm on a standard 10 cm visual analog scale. Female workers reported less discomfort and distraction while wearing the sensors at work than males (discomfort, beta = -0.93; distraction, beta = -0.3). In general, the low ratings of discomfort, distraction, and burden associated with wearing the devices during work suggests that inertial sensors may be suitable for extended use among manufacturing workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanxuan Zhang
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, College of Engineering and Computer Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA; Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
| | - Mark C Schall
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
| | - Howard Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
| | - Sean Gallagher
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
| | - Gerard A Davis
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
| | - Richard Sesek
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
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Applicability of Physiological Monitoring Systems within Occupational Groups: A Systematic Review. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21217249. [PMID: 34770556 PMCID: PMC8587311 DOI: 10.3390/s21217249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of physiological monitoring technologies has produced exceptional opportunities for real-time collection and analysis of workers' physiological information. To benefit from these safety and health prognostic opportunities, research efforts have explored the applicability of these devices to control workers' wellbeing levels during occupational activities. A systematic review is proposed to summarise up-to-date progress in applying physiological monitoring systems for occupational groups. Adhering with the PRISMA Statement, five databases were searched from 2014 to 2021, and 12 keywords were combined, concluding with the selection of 38 articles. Sources of risk of bias were assessed regarding randomisation procedures, selective outcome reporting and generalisability of results. Assessment procedures involving non-invasive methods applied with health and safety-related goals were filtered. Working-age participants from homogeneous occupational groups were selected, with these groups primarily including firefighters and construction workers. Research objectives were mainly directed to assess heat stress and physiological workload demands. Heart rate related variables, thermal responses and motion tracking through accelerometry were the most common approaches. Overall, wearable sensors proved to be valid tools for assessing physiological status in working environments. Future research should focus on conducting sensor fusion assessments, engaging wearables in real-time evaluation methods and giving continuous feedback to workers and practitioners.
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Parker HM, Gallagher R, Duffield C, Ding D, Sibbritt D, Perry L. Occupational and Leisure-Time Physical Activity Have Different Relationships With Health: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study of Working Nurses. J Phys Act Health 2021; 18:1495-1502. [PMID: 34686623 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2020-0415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent research has focused on the potential benefits of physical activity in occupational settings in addition to leisure time. However, occupational physical activity (OPA) differs substantially for occupations that require heavy and repetitive physical work, such as nursing. We explored associations between leisure time and OPA and health outcomes in working nurses and midwives. METHODS Nurses who were enrolled in the Fit For the Future study (New South Wales, Australia) and who completed physical activity questionnaires (n = 4343) were classified according to high (HO) or low (LO) occupational and high (HL) or low (LL) leisure-time physical activity (LTPA): HO performed walking/heavy labor most/all of the time at work; HL met the guidelines of 150 minutes per week moderate to vigorous LTPA, creating 4 categories: HOLL, HOHL, LOHL, and LOLL. RESULTS HL predicted better self-rated health (unstandardized B = 0.51, 95% confidence interval, 0.44 to 0.57) and lower likelihood of ≥3 sick days in the past 12 months (OR: 0.71, 95% confidence interval, 0.61 to 0.83), whereas HO predicted higher likelihood of ≥3 sick days (OR: 1.17, 95% confidence interval, 1.01 to 1.35), adjusting for all variables. CONCLUSIONS OPA may not confer the same health benefits as LTPA for nurses. Health-promoting interventions should emphasize the importance of achieving adequate moderate to vigorous LTPA for all, including those undertaking substantial OPA.
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Hu B, Li S, Chen Y, Kavi R, Coppola S. Applying deep neural networks and inertial measurement unit in recognizing irregular walking differences in the real world. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 96:103414. [PMID: 34087702 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Falling injuries pose serious health risks to people of all ages, and knowing the extent of exposure to irregular surfaces will increase the ability to measure fall risk. Current gait analysis methods require overly complicated instrumentation and have not been tested for external factors such as walking surfaces that are encountered in the real-world, thus the results are difficult to extrapolate to real-world situations. Artificial intelligence approaches (in particular deep learning networks of varied architectures) to analyze data collected from wearable sensors were used to identify irregular surface exposure in a real-world setting. Thirty young adults wore six Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors placed on their body (right wrist, trunks at the L5/S1 level, left and right thigh, left and right shank) while walking over eight different surfaces commonly encountered in the living community as well as occupational settings. Three variations of deep learning models were trained to solve this walking surface recognition problem: 1) convolution neural network (CNN); 2) long short term memory (LSTM) network and 3) LSTM structure with an extra global pooling layer (Global-LSTM) which learns the coordination between different data streams (e.g. different channels of the same sensor as well as different sensors). Results indicated that all three deep learning models can recognize walking surfaces with above 0.90 accuracy, with the Global-LSTM yielding the best performance at 0.92 accuracy. In terms of individual sensors, the right thigh based Global-LSTM model reported the highest accuracy (0.90 accuracy). Results from this study provide further evidence that deep learning and wearable sensors can be utilized to recognize irregular walking surfaces induced motion alteration and applied to prevent falling injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Hu
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - S Li
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Y Chen
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - R Kavi
- West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA.
| | - S Coppola
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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15
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Fan X, Lind CM, Rhen IM, Forsman M. Effects of Sensor Types and Angular Velocity Computational Methods in Field Measurements of Occupational Upper Arm and Trunk Postures and Movements. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21165527. [PMID: 34450967 PMCID: PMC8401405 DOI: 10.3390/s21165527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Accelerometer-based inclinometers have dominated kinematic measurements in previous field studies, while the use of inertial measurement units that additionally include gyroscopes is rapidly increasing. Recent laboratory studies suggest that these two sensor types and the two commonly used angular velocity computational methods may produce substantially different results. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the effects of sensor types and angular velocity computational methods on the measures of work postures and movements in a real occupational setting. Half-workday recordings of arm and trunk postures, and movements from 38 warehouse workers were compared using two sensor types: accelerometers versus accelerometers with gyroscopes-and using two angular velocity computational methods, i.e., inclination velocity versus generalized velocity. The results showed an overall small difference (<2° and value independent) for posture percentiles between the two sensor types, but substantial differences in movement percentiles both between the sensor types and between the angular computational methods. For example, the group mean of the 50th percentiles were for accelerometers: 71°/s (generalized velocity) and 33°/s (inclination velocity)-and for accelerometers with gyroscopes: 31°/s (generalized velocity) and 16°/s (inclination velocity). The significant effects of sensor types and angular computational methods on angular velocity measures in field work are important in inter-study comparisons and in comparisons to recommended threshold limit values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelong Fan
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.F.); (I.-M.R.); (M.F.)
| | - Carl Mikael Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.F.); (I.-M.R.); (M.F.)
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Hälsovägen 11C, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| | - Ida-Märta Rhen
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.F.); (I.-M.R.); (M.F.)
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE-113 65 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Industrial and Materials Science, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mikael Forsman
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.F.); (I.-M.R.); (M.F.)
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Hälsovägen 11C, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE-113 65 Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Trunk Posture during Manual Materials Handling of Beer Kegs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147380. [PMID: 34299831 PMCID: PMC8307858 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Craft brewing is a rapidly growing industry in the U.S. Most craft breweries are small businesses with few resources for robotic or other mechanical-assisted equipment, requiring work to be performed manually by employees. Craft brewery workers frequently handle stainless steel half-barrel kegs, which weigh between 13.5 kg (29.7 lbs.) empty and 72.8 kg (161.5 lbs.) full. Moving kegs may be associated with low back pain and even injury. In the present study, researchers performed a quantitative assessment of trunk postures using an inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based kinematic measurement system while workers lifted kegs at a craft brewery. Results of this field-based study indicated that during keg handling, craft brewery workers exhibited awkward and non-neutral trunk postures. Based on the results of the posture data, design recommendations were identified to reduce the hazardous exposure for musculoskeletal disorders among craft brewery workers.
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17
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Goodwin BM, Cain SM, Van Straaten MG, Fortune E, Jahanian O, Morrow MMB. Humeral elevation workspace during daily life of adults with spinal cord injury who use a manual wheelchair compared to age and sex matched able-bodied controls. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248978. [PMID: 33891602 PMCID: PMC8064589 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Shoulder pain and pathology are extremely common for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) who use manual wheelchairs (MWC). Although risky humeral kinematics have been measured during wheelchair-based activities performed in the lab, little is known about arm kinematics in the free-living environment. The purpose of this study was to measure the humeral elevation workspace throughout a typical day for individuals with SCI who use a MWC and matched able-bodied controls. Thirty-four individuals with SCI who use a MWC (42.7±12.7 years of age, 28 males/6 females, C6-L1) and 34 age-and sex-matched controls were enrolled. Participants wore three inertial measurement units (IMU) on their upper arms and torso for one to two days. Humeral elevation angles were estimated and the percentage of time individuals spent in five elevation bins (0–30°, 30–60°, 60–90°, 90–120°, and 120–180°) were calculated. For both arms, the SCI cohort spent a significantly lower percentage of the day in 0–30° of humeral elevation (Dominant: SCI = 15.7±12.6%, Control = 32.1±15.6%, p<0.0001; Non-Dominant: SCI = 21.9±17.8%, Control = 34.3±15.5%, p = 0.001) and a significantly higher percentage of time in elevations associated with tendon compression (30–60° of humeral elevation, Dominant: SCI = 62.8±14.4%, Control = 49.9.1±13.0%, p<0.0001; Non-Dominant: SCI = 58.8±14.9%, Control = 48.3±13.6%, p = 0.003) than controls. The increased percentage of time individuals with SCI spent in elevations associated with tendon compression may contribute to increased shoulder pathology. Characterizing the humeral elevation workspace utilized throughout a typical day may help in understanding the increased prevalence of shoulder pain and pathology in individuals with SCI who use MWCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna M. Goodwin
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Stephen M. Cain
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Meegan G. Van Straaten
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Emma Fortune
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Omid Jahanian
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Melissa M. B. Morrow
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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18
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Chen H, Schall MC, Fethke NB. Measuring upper arm elevation using an inertial measurement unit: An exploration of sensor fusion algorithms and gyroscope models. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2020; 89:103187. [PMID: 32854821 PMCID: PMC9605636 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Many sensor fusion algorithms for analyzing human motion information collected with inertial measurement units have been reported in the scientific literature. Selecting which algorithm to use can be a challenge for ergonomists that may be unfamiliar with the strengths and limitations of the various options. In this paper, we describe fundamental differences among several algorithms, including differences in sensor fusion approach (e.g., complementary filter vs. Kalman Filter) and gyroscope error modeling (i.e., inclusion or exclusion of gyroscope bias). We then compare different sensor fusion algorithms considering the fundamentals discussed using laboratory-based measurements of upper arm elevation collected under three motion speeds. Results indicate peak displacement errors of <4.5° with a computationally efficient, non-proprietary complementary filter that did not account for gyroscope bias during each of the one-minute trials. Controlling for gyroscope bias reduced peak displacement errors to <3.0°. The complementary filters were comparable (<1° peak displacement difference) to the more complex Kalman filters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, AL, USA.
| | - Mark C Schall
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, AL, USA
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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19
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Yu F, Narayanan A, Mackay L, Ward K, King A, Smith M. Describing objectively measured intensive care nurses' physical work activity behavioural patterns during a 12-hr shift. J Clin Nurs 2020; 29:4331-4342. [PMID: 32860292 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM AND OBJECTIVES To describe intensive care unit (ICU) nurses' physical work activity behavioural patterns over 12 hr using dual accelerometry, following a job demands-recovery framework. BACKGROUND Limited studies utilised accelerometry to objectively analyse nurses' physical workloads. Little is known about intensive care nurses' physical activity patterns during a 12-hr shift. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was conducted with intensive care nurses from four units in Auckland, New Zealand. METHODS Each participant wore two Axivity AX3 accelerometers to measure physical activity during a 12-hr day or night shift. An online survey captured participants' demographic information. R software (version 3.6.1) and SPSS version 26 were utilised for data analysis. The STROBE was followed. RESULTS A total of 102 nurses were included in this study. A high level of light intensity activity behaviours (standing, dynamic standing, walking) was observed throughout the day shifts, with no higher intensity behaviours identified. Activity levels were highest at the beginning of shifts and followed a consistent pattern, with an additional peak around midday for day shifts and at the end of the shift for night shifts. Observable differences were seen between day and night shifts with a greater prevalence of sitting and lying during night shifts. Standing, dynamic standing, sitting, lying and walking were significant factors in the differences of the physical work behaviours between the day shift nurses and the night shift nurses. Significant differences in dynamic standing and lying were found between ICUs. CONCLUSIONS Intensive care nurses' physical work activity involved a large amount of standing and dynamic standing during a 12-hr shift. The overall physical workload during a 12-hr day shift was significantly higher than that during a 12-hr night shift. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Results may help managers attain a better understanding of nurses' physical workloads during a 12-hr shift.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Yu
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,RN in Intensive Care Unit, Waikato Hospital, Waikato, New Zealand
| | - Anantha Narayanan
- School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lisa Mackay
- School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kim Ward
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Anna King
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Melody Smith
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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20
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Zare M, Bodin J, Sagot JC, Roquelaure Y. Quantification of Exposure to Risk Postures in Truck Assembly Operators: Neck, Back, Arms and Wrists. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17176062. [PMID: 32825386 PMCID: PMC7503406 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The study assessed the proportion of time in risky postures for the main joints of the upper limbs in a truck assembly plant and explored the association with musculoskeletal symptoms. Fourteen workstations (13 individuals) of a truck assembly plant were selected, and seven sensors were placed on the body segments of the participants. The sensors included tri-axial accelerometers for the arms and back, inclinometers for the neck and electro-goniometry for quantifying flexion/extension of the right and left hands. The proportions of time in moderate awkward postures were high at all workstations. Neck and wrist excessive awkward postures were observed for most workstations. The average values of the 91st percentile for back flexion and right/left arm elevation were 25°, 62°, and 57°, respectively. The 91st and 9th percentile averages for neck flexion/extension were 35.9° and −4.7°, respectively. An insignificant relationship was found between the percentage of time spent in awkward upper limb posture and musculoskeletal symptoms. The findings provide objective and quantitative data about time exposure, variability, and potential risk factors in the real workplace. Quantitative measurements in the field provide objective data of the body postures and movements of tasks that can be helpful in the musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) prevention program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Zare
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)—UMR_S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France; (J.B.); (Y.R.)
- ERCOS Group (Pôle), Laboratory of ELLIAD-EA4661, UTBM-University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Belfort 90001, France;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-7-8772-2141
| | - Julie Bodin
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)—UMR_S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France; (J.B.); (Y.R.)
| | - Jean-Claude Sagot
- ERCOS Group (Pôle), Laboratory of ELLIAD-EA4661, UTBM-University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Belfort 90001, France;
| | - Yves Roquelaure
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)—UMR_S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France; (J.B.); (Y.R.)
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21
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Geissinger J, Alemi MM, Simon AA, Chang SE, Asbeck AT. Quantification of Postures for Low-Height Object Manipulation Conducted by Manual Material Handlers in a Retail Environment. IISE Trans Occup Ergon Hum Factors 2020; 8:88-98. [PMID: 32673178 DOI: 10.1080/24725838.2020.1793825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Occupational Applications Manual material handlers performing stocking tasks spent substantial amounts of time in bent postures but used traditional stoops and squats infrequently. Instead, they often used split-legged stoops and squats, where one foot is further forward than the other, and one-legged ("golfer's") lifts. During object manipulation, the distance workers reached away from their body, and the height at which they manipulated objects, were correlated with the posture used by the worker. Workers also stayed in different postures for different lengths of time. It is likely that certain postures are more comfortable for the workers to remain in, provide additional mobility or operational radius, or require less energy to use. Understanding these factors in more detail could lead to improved worker training programs, where the postures taught not only have low injury risk but are comfortable so are actually adopted and used by the workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Geissinger
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | | | - Athulya A Simon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - S Emily Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Alan T Asbeck
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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22
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Budarick AR, Lad U, Fischer SL. Can the Use of Turn-Assist Surfaces Reduce the Physical Burden on Caregivers When Performing Patient Turning? HUMAN FACTORS 2020; 62:77-92. [PMID: 31084493 DOI: 10.1177/0018720819845746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify differences in physical workload afforded by turn-assist surfaces relative to manual patient turns, and between nursing caregivers (turn-away vs. turn-toward) while performing partnered patient turning. BACKGROUND Nurse caregivers experience an increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries at the back or shoulders when performing patient-handling activities. Use of turn-assist surfaces can reduce the physical burden and risk on caregivers. METHOD Whole-body motion capture and hand force measures were collected from 25 caregivers (17 female) while performing partnered manual and technology-facilitated turns. Shoulder and low back angles and L4/L5 joint contact forces were calculated at the instant of peak hand force application for both caregivers. RESULTS Hand force requirements for the turn-away caregiver were 93% of the estimated maximum acceptable force when performing a manual turn. Use of a turn-assist surface eliminated hand forces required to initiate the patient turn for the turn-away caregiver, where their role was reduced to inserting appropriate wedging behind the patient once the facilitated turn was complete. This reduced shoulder moments by 21.3 Nm for the turn-away caregiver, a reduction in exposure from 70% of maximum shoulder strength capacity to 15%. Spine compression exposures were reduced by 302.1 N for the turn-toward caregiver when using a turn-assist surface. CONCLUSION Use of a turn-assist surface reduced peak hand force and shoulder-related exposures for turning away and reduced spine-related exposures for turning toward. APPLICATION Turn-assist devices should be recommended to decrease the risk of musculoskeletal disorder hazards for both caregivers when performing a partnered patient turn.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Uma Lad
- 8430 University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Fethke NB, Schall MC, Chen H, Branch CA, Merlino LA. Biomechanical factors during common agricultural activities: Results of on-farm exposure assessments using direct measurement methods. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2020; 17:85-96. [PMID: 32069181 PMCID: PMC8256625 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2020.1717502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Agricultural work is associated with increased risk of adverse musculoskeletal health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to quantify exposure to biomechanical factors among a sample (n = 55) of farmers in the Midwest region of the U.S. while they performed a variety of routine agricultural activities, and to compare exposure levels between these activities. Surface electromyography was used to estimate activity levels of the erector spinae, upper trapezius, forearm flexor, and forearm extensor muscle groups. Simultaneously, inertial sensors were used to measure kinematics of the trunk, upper arm, and wrist. In general, lower muscle activity levels, less extreme postures, and slower movement speeds were observed during activities that involved primarily the use of agricultural machinery in comparison to manual activities, suggesting a potential advantage of mechanization relative to musculoskeletal health. Median wrist movement speeds exceeding recently proposed exposure thresholds were also observed during many manual activities, such as milking animals and repairing equipment. Upper arm postures and movement speeds did not appear to confer excessive risk for shoulder-related outcomes (on the whole), but interpretation of the results is limited by a sampling approach that may not have captured the full extent of exposure variation. Not surprisingly, substantial variation in exposure levels were observed within each agricultural activity, which is related to substantial variation in the equipment, tools, and work practices used by participants. Ultimately, the results of this study contribute to an emerging literature in which the physical demands of routine agricultural work have been described on the basis of sensor-based measurements rather than more common self-report or observation-based approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B Fethke
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Mark C Schall
- Industrial & Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Howard Chen
- Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | | | - Linda A Merlino
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Clays E, Hallman D, Oakman J, Holtermann A. Objectively measured occupational physical activity in blue-collar workers: What is the role of job type, gender and psychosocial resources? APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2020; 82:102948. [PMID: 31493536 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2019.102948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to describe occupational physical activity (OPA) and examine the role of psychosocial job resources among blue-collar workers. In a sample of 198 workers (57% male; mean age 44.9 (SD 9.9) year) from 7 companies in Denmark, two accelerometers (Actigraph) were placed on the thigh and trunk during 1-5 consecutive days, to determine working time spent standing, walking, on feet and in activity of moderate to vigorous intensity level (MVPA). The level of influence and social support at work were assessed by questionnaire. The exposure to OPA significantly varied by particular job type, especially in male predominant occupations. Overall, psychosocial job resources did not affect the exposure to OPA. These findings suggest that workplace interventions aiming to prevent adverse outcomes of OPA among blue-collars workers ought to focus on task redesign and target work organizational factors related to specific job type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Els Clays
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Belgium.
| | - David Hallman
- Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Gävle, Sweden.
| | - Jodi Oakman
- Department of Public Health, Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, La Trobe University, Australia.
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Gustafsson K, Marklund S, Aronsson G, Leineweber C. Physical work environment factors affecting risk for disability pension due to mental or musculoskeletal diagnoses among nursing professionals, care assistants and other occupations: a prospective, population-based cohort study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026491. [PMID: 31619414 PMCID: PMC6797279 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the influence of physical work factors on the risks of future disability pension (DP) due to mental or musculoskeletal diagnoses among nursing professionals, care assistants and all other occupations in the general working population in Sweden. METHODS The prospective population study was based on representative samples of working individuals (n=79 004) aged 16-64, interviewed in the Swedish Work Environment Survey between 1993 and 2013. Information on diagnosed DP in 1994-2014 was gathered from the Social Insurance Agency's database. The focus was on nursing professionals (registered nurses and midwives) and care assistants, for example, assistant nurses and hospital ward assistants. The outcome was DP, classified into two diagnostic groups. Associations between physical work factors and risk of DP were calculated using Cox regression with HR and 95% CI. RESULTS Physical work factors were associated with future DP after adjusting for sociodemographic conditions and psychosocial work factors among care assistants (n=10 175) and among all other occupations (n=66 253), but not among nursing professionals (n=2576). The increased risk among care assistants (n=197) exposed to heavy physical work was 66% (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.39 to 1.97), and for those exposed to strenuous work postures (n=420) it was 56% (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.35 to 1.80). Physical work indicators were mainly associated with musculoskeletal DP diagnoses among care assistants, but two indicators were significant also for mental diagnoses. An increased risk of DP was found among nursing professionals (n=102) exposed to detergents or disinfectants (HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.05), but not among care assistants. CONCLUSIONS Heavy physical work and strenuous postures are predictors of future DP, particularly among care assistants and in the general working population. In order to reduce early exit from the workforce, efforts should be made to improve physical and ergonomic working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klas Gustafsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Staffan Marklund
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Aronsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Kersten JT, Fethke NB. Radio frequency identification to measure the duration of machine-paced assembly tasks: Agreement with self-reported task duration and application in variance components analyses of upper arm postures and movements recorded over multiple days. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2019; 75:74-82. [PMID: 30509539 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/08/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Technical advances in inertial measurement units (IMUs) with data logging functionality have enabled multi-day collection of fullshift upper arm postures and movements. Such data are useful for characterizing job-level exposures and, when coupled with task-level information, can inform interventions to mitigate high-exposure tasks. Previously reported methods for capturing task-level information, however, were limited primarily to self-report diaries or direct observation. In this study of machine-paced manufacturing workers (n=6), a low-cost radio frequency identification (RFID) system was used to collect information about when, and for how long, specific assembly tasks were performed during up to 14 consecutive work shifts (76 total work shifts across the six participants). The RFID data were compared to information collected with a self-report diary using Bland-Altman analyses. In addition, the RFID data were paired with IMU data to identify task-level exposures from within full-shift recordings of upper arm postures and movements. These data were then used to estimate the relative contributions of between- and within-worker sources of variance to overall variance in posture and movement summary measures using hierarchical random-effects analysis of variance (ANOVA) techniques. Average estimates of daily task duration based on RFID data were comparable to estimates obtained by self-report (mean bias < ±1 minute) but with substantial variability (limits of agreement > ±100 minutes). In addition, the ANOVA models containing task-level information suggested a substantial amount of the overall exposure variance was attributed to repeated observations of the same task within a work day. These findings (i) suggest that while the RFID system used in this study performed adequately, further refinement, validation, and/or alternative strategies may be needed and (ii) underscore the importance of repeated full-shift and task-based measurement approaches in characterizing physical exposures, even in machine-paced environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua T Kersten
- University of Iowa, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, S300 CPHB, 52242, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- University of Iowa, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, S347 CPHB, 52242, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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Baudier P, Ammi C, Lecouteux A. Employees’ Acceptance of the Healthcare Internet of Things: A Source of Innovation in Corporate Human Resource Policies. JOURNAL OF INNOVATION ECONOMICS & MANAGEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.3917/jie.pr1.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Thompson JF, Severson RL, Rosecrance JC. Occupational physical activity in brewery and office workers. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2018; 15:686-699. [PMID: 30188781 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2018.1492136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Active lifestyles are beneficial to health and well-being but our workplaces may not be inherently supportive of physical activity at work. With the increasing use of technology in the workplace, many jobs are becoming more sedentary. The purpose of this study was to characterize levels of occupational physical activity (OPA) among active and sedentary workers. Two types of activity trackers (Fitbit Charge HR and Hexoskin) were used to assess activity measures (steps, heart rate, and energy expenditure) among workers during one full work shift. The first objective of the study was to assess the agreement between two types of accelerometer-based activity trackers as measures of occupational physical activity. The second objective of this study was to assess differences in measures of OPA among workers in generally physically active (brewery) and sedentary (office) work environments. Occupational physical activity data were collected from 50 workers in beer-brewing tasks and 51 workers in office work tasks. The 101 subjects were from the brewing service sector, a call center, and an engineering office within a manufacturing facility. A two-factor repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess the two activity tracking devices while two-sample t-tests were used to compare the two worker groups. There were statistically significant differences in total steps and mean heart rate between the two devices. When comparing the two groups of workers there were statistically significant differences in measures of steps, mean heart rate, and energy expenditure. The results of the present study provide quantitative evidence that levels of OPA should be identified for different work groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janalee F Thompson
- a Colorado School of Public Health Center for Health , Work & Environment , Aurora , Colorado
- b Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Science , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Rachel L Severson
- b Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Science , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - John C Rosecrance
- b Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Science , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
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Gupta A, Wilkerson GB, Sharda R, Colston MA. Who is More Injury‐Prone? Prediction and Assessment of Injury Risk. DECISION SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/deci.12333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Gupta
- Department of Systems & TechnologyHarbert College of Business, Auburn University 405 West Magnolia Ave. Auburn Al 36849
| | - Gary B. Wilkerson
- Graduate Athletic Training Program University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 615 McCallie Avenue – Department 6606 Chattanooga TN 37403
| | - Ramesh Sharda
- Watson Graduate SchoolSpears School of Business, Oklahoma State University Stillwater OK 74074
| | - Marisa A. Colston
- Health and Human PerformanceUniversity of Tennessee Chattanooga Metro Building – Dept 6606, 615 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga TN 37403
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Doss R, Robathan J, Abdel-Malek D, Holmes MW. Posture Coaching and Feedback during Patient Handling in a Student Nurse Population. IISE Trans Occup Ergon Hum Factors 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/24725838.2018.1428838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ramez Doss
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jonathan Robathan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Abdel-Malek
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, ON, Canada
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Granzow RF, Schall MC, Smidt MF, Chen H, Fethke NB, Huangfu R. Characterizing exposure to physical risk factors among reforestation hand planters in the Southeastern United States. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2018; 66:1-8. [PMID: 28958420 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Low back and neck/shoulder pain are commonly reported among reforestation hand planters. While some studies have documented the intensive cardiovascular demands of hand planting, limited information is available regarding exposures to physical risk factors associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among hand planters. This study used surface electromyography (EMG) and inertial measurement units (IMUs) to characterize the muscle activation patterns, upper arm and trunk postures, movement velocities, and physical activity (PA) of fourteen Southeastern reforestation hand planters over one work shift. Results indicated that hand planters are exposed to physical risk factors such as extreme trunk postures (32.5% of time spent in ≥45° trunk flexion) and high effort muscle exertions (e.g., mean root-mean-square right upper trapezius amplitude of 54.1% reference voluntary exertion) that may place them at increased risk for developing MSDs. The findings indicate a need for continued field-based research among hand planters to identify and/or develop maximally effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Granzow
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, 3301 Shelby Center for Engineering Technology, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Mark C Schall
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, 3301 Shelby Center for Engineering Technology, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Mathew F Smidt
- School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University, 3423 School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Howard Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, UI Research Park #164 IREH, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, S347 CPHB, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Rong Huangfu
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, 3301 Shelby Center for Engineering Technology, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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Sedighi Maman Z, Alamdar Yazdi MA, Cavuoto LA, Megahed FM. A data-driven approach to modeling physical fatigue in the workplace using wearable sensors. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2017; 65:515-529. [PMID: 28259238 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 01/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Wearable sensors are currently being used to manage fatigue in professional athletics, transportation and mining industries. In manufacturing, physical fatigue is a challenging ergonomic/safety "issue" since it lowers productivity and increases the incidence of accidents. Therefore, physical fatigue must be managed. There are two main goals for this study. First, we examine the use of wearable sensors to detect physical fatigue occurrence in simulated manufacturing tasks. The second goal is to estimate the physical fatigue level over time. In order to achieve these goals, sensory data were recorded for eight healthy participants. Penalized logistic and multiple linear regression models were used for physical fatigue detection and level estimation, respectively. Important features from the five sensors locations were selected using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), a popular variable selection methodology. The results show that the LASSO model performed well for both physical fatigue detection and modeling. The modeling approach is not participant and/or workload regime specific and thus can be adopted for other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Sedighi Maman
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, AL 36849, USA.
| | | | - Lora A Cavuoto
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University at Buffalo, NY 14260, USA.
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De Baets L, van der Straaten R, Matheve T, Timmermans A. Shoulder assessment according to the international classification of functioning by means of inertial sensor technologies: A systematic review. Gait Posture 2017; 57:278-294. [PMID: 28683420 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2017.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
This review investigates current protocols using Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) in shoulder research, and outlines future paths regarding IMU use for shoulder research. Different databases were searched for relevant articles. Criteria for study selection were (1) research in healthy persons or persons with shoulder problems, (2) IMUs applied as assessment tool for the shoulder (in healthy subjects and shoulder patients) or upper limb (in shoulder patients), (3) peer-reviewed, full-text papers in English or Dutch. Studies with less than five participants and without ethical approval were excluded. Data extraction included (1) study design, (2) participant characteristics, (3) type/brand of IMU, (4) tasks included in the assessment protocol, and (5) outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Scapulothoracic/glenohumeral and humerothoracic kinematics were reported in respectively 10 and 27 of the 37 included papers. Only one paper in healthy persons assessed, next to scapulothoracic/glenohumeral kinematics, other upper limb joints. IMUs' validity and reliability to capture shoulder function was limited. Considering applied protocols, 39% of the protocols was located on the International-Classification-of-Functioning (ICF) function level, while 38% and 23% were on the 'capacity' and 'actual performance'-sublevel, of the ICF-activity level. Most available IMU-research regarding the shoulder is clinically less relevant, given the widely reported humerothoracic kinematics which do not add to clinical-decision-making, and the absence of protocols assessing the complete upper limb chain. Apart from knowledge on methodological pitfalls and opportunities regarding the use of IMUs, this review provides future research paths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesbet De Baets
- REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center - BIOMED Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Rob van der Straaten
- REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center - BIOMED Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Thomas Matheve
- REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center - BIOMED Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Annick Timmermans
- REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center - BIOMED Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
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Andrade MF, Chaves ÉDCL, Miguel MRO, Simão TP, Nogueira DA, Iunes DH. Evaluation of body posture in nursing students. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2017; 51:e03241. [PMID: 28902322 DOI: 10.1590/s1980-220x2016027303241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the body posture of nursing students before and after clinical practice. METHOD The study was developed in two stages. Initially the body posture of students of the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th periods were assessed through photogrammetry. All images were analyzed in a random and masked manner with CorporisPro® 3.1.3 software. Three evaluations were performed for each angle and then the mean value was calculated. Two years later, when the 4th period students had developed their clinical internships, their body posture was again evaluated. RESULTS The total sample consisted of 112 students. Comparison of their posture with the normality pattern showed that all the angles presented significant differences (p< 0.00), except for the angle of the Thales triangle. Reassessment of these students evidenced significant differences in the angles of the acromioclavicular joint (p=0.03), knee flexion (p< 0.00) and in the tibiotarsal angle (p< 0.00). CONCLUSION All the students presented alterations when compared to the normality values. The segments that presented significant differences between before and after practice were the acromioclavicular angle, knee flexion, and tibiotarsal angle; the latter two were in the rolling position. OBJETIVO Investigar a postura dos estudantes de enfermagem antes e após a prática clínica. MÉTODO O estudo foi desenvolvido em duas etapas, inicialmente com estudantes (2º, 4°, 6° e 8º períodos) tiveram sua postural corporal avaliada por meio da fotogrametria. Todas as imagens foram analisadas, de maneira aleatória e mascarada, por meio do software CorporisPro® 3.1.3. Foram realizadas três avaliações para cada ângulo e calculada a média. Dois anos depois, quando os estudantes do 4º período desenvolveram os estágios clínicos, foram novamente avaliados quanto à postura corporal. RESULTADOS A amostra total foi composta por 112 estudantes. Comparando-se os estudantes com o padrão de normalidade, todos os ângulos apresentaram diferença significativa (p< 0,00), com exceção do ângulo triângulo de Tales. Reavaliando os mesmos estudantes, houve diferença significativa nos ângulos da articulação acromioclavicular (p=0,03), da flexão de joelhos (p< 0,00) e no ângulo tibiotársico (p< 0,00). CONCLUSÃO Todos os estudantes apresentaram alterações, comparadas aos valores de normalidade. Os segmentos com diferença significativa, comparando-se antes e após a prática, foram o ângulo acromioclavicular, flexo de joelho e ângulo tibiotársico, sendo os dois últimos na posição de rolamento.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Talita Prado Simão
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Arias OE, Umukoroa PE, Stoffel SD, Hopcia K, Sorensen G, Dennerlein JT. Associations between trunk flexion and physical activity of patient care workers for a single shift: A pilot study. Work 2017; 56:247-255. [PMID: 28211832 PMCID: PMC7641201 DOI: 10.3233/wor-172481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trunk flexion and occupational physical activity are parameters that have been used to assess and characterize jobs with high physical demands. OBJECTIVE Characterize the physical load of trunk flexion and physical activity of patient care unit (PCU) workers during a single work shift. METHODS Participants wore an accelerometer to measure physical activity and an inclinometer to assess trunk flexion during a single work shift, which was compared using correlation and linear regression analyses. RESULTS Participants spent 74% of their work time upright between - 10° to 20° and 19% of their time flexed between 20° to 45°. On average workers spent 3% and 5% of their time, in the extreme postures of less than - 10° and greater than 45°, respectively. Participants spent 99% of their shift below moderate and vigorous activity. The largest correlation found was between the number of forward trunk flexions to 20° degrees per shift and minutes in lifestyle activity (r = 0.6, p < 0.001). No correlations between minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity and trunk flexion were observed. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the physical demands of patient care unit workers as measured through trunk flexion are associated with lifestyle and light levels of physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar E. Arias
- Harvard School of Public Health Center for Work, Health and Wellbeing, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), CA, USA
| | - Peter E. Umukoroa
- Harvard School of Public Health Center for Work, Health and Wellbeing, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sonja D. Stoffel
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Education, Camosun College, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karen Hopcia
- Department of Occupational Health, Partners HealthCare, Inc., Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Health Systems Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Glorian Sorensen
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Community Based Research, Dana Faber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jack T. Dennerlein
- Harvard School of Public Health Center for Work, Health and Wellbeing, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Physical Therapy, Movement, and Rehabilitation Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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Rawashdeh SA, Rafeldt DA, Uhl TL. Wearable IMU for Shoulder Injury Prevention in Overhead Sports. SENSORS 2016; 16:s16111847. [PMID: 27827880 PMCID: PMC5134506 DOI: 10.3390/s16111847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Body-worn inertial sensors have enabled motion capture outside of the laboratory setting. In this work, an inertial measurement unit was attached to the upper arm to track and discriminate between shoulder motion gestures in order to help prevent shoulder over-use injuries in athletics through real-time preventative feedback. We present a detection and classification approach that can be used to count the number of times certain motion gestures occur. The application presented involves tracking baseball throws and volleyball serves, which are common overhead movements that can lead to shoulder and elbow overuse injuries. Eleven subjects are recruited to collect training, testing, and randomized validation data, which include throws, serves, and seven other exercises that serve as a large null class of similar movements, which is analogous to a realistic usage scenario and requires a robust estimator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir A Rawashdeh
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, MI 48128, USA.
| | - Derek A Rafeldt
- Athletic Training and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0200, USA.
| | - Timothy L Uhl
- Athletic Training and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0200, USA.
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