1
|
Dahlqvist C, Arvidsson I, Löfqvist L, Gremark Simonsen J. Consistency between the ACGIH TLV for hand activity and proposed action levels for wrist velocity and forearm muscular load based on objective measurements: an example from the assembly industry. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2024; 30:927-935. [PMID: 38961651 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2024.2367367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the consistency between results of the American Conference for Governmental Occupational Hygienists (ACGIH) threshold limit value (TLV) for hand activity and proposed action levels of objective measurements in risk assessments of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Methods. Wrist velocities and forearm muscular load were measured for 11 assemblers during one working day. Simultaneously, each assembler's hand activity level (HAL) during three sub-cycles was rated twice on two separate occasions by two experts, using a HAL scale. Arm/hand exertion was also rated by the assemblers themselves using a Borg scale. In total, 66 sub-cycles were assessed and assigned to three exposure categories: A) below ACGIH action limit (AL) (green); B) between AL and TLV (yellow); and C) above TLV (red). The median wrist velocity and the 90th percentile of forearm muscular load obtained from the objective measurements corresponding to the sub-cycles were calculated and assigned to two exposure categories: A) below or C) above the proposed action level. Results. The agreement between ACGIH TLV for hand activity and the proposed action level for wrist velocity was 87%. Conclusions. The proposed action level for wrist velocity is highly consistent with the TLV. Additional studies are needed to confirm the results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Dahlqvist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Inger Arvidsson
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lotta Löfqvist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jenny Gremark Simonsen
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yin NH, Giulio ID, Hodkinson PD, Formenti F, Pollock RD. Sex differences in cervical disc height and neck muscle activation during manipulation of external load from helmets. Exp Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39120591 DOI: 10.1113/ep091996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Neck pain associated with helmet-wear is an occupational health problem often observed in helicopter pilots and aircrew. Whether aircrew helmet wearing is associated with physiological and biomechanical differences between sexes is currently unknown. This study investigated neuromuscular activation patterns during different helmet-wearing conditions. The helmet load was manipulated through a novel Helmet Balancing System (HBS) in healthy, non-pilot male and female participants (n = 10 each, age 19-45 years) in two phases. Phase A assessed the acute effects of helmet-wear on neck muscles activation during head movements. Phase B examined changes in muscle activity and cervical disc height after wearing a helmet for 45 min. In Phase A, muscle activity was similar between sexes in many movements, but it was higher in female participants when wearing a helmet than in males. The HBS reduced muscle activity in both sexes. In Phase B, female participants exhibited a greater level of muscular fatigue, and male participants' cervical disc height was significantly decreased [5.7 (1.4) vs. 4.4 (1.5) mm, P < 0.001] after continuous wearing. Both sexes showed no significant change in muscle fatigue and disc height [male: 5.0 (1.3) vs. 5.2 (1.4) mm, P = 0.604] after applying HBS. These findings demonstrate sex-specific physiological and biomechanical responses to wearing a helmet. They may indicate different postural and motor control strategies, associated with different neck pain aetiologies in male and female aircrew, the knowledge of which is important to reduce or prevent musculoskeletal injuries associated with helmet wearing. HIGHLIGHTS: What is the central question of this study? Do sex differences exist in the neck physiological response to helmet-wearing? What is the main finding and its importance? Sex differences exist in both the acute response and after 45 min of helmet wearing: during a given head movement, female participants' muscle activity was greater than male participants' and females also demonstrated greater muscular fatigue after continuous helmet-wear than males while cervical disc height showed a significant reduction after 45 min helmet-wear in males only. These findings could provide insight into future training or injury prevention strategy for pilots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Hao Yin
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Irene Di Giulio
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Peter D Hodkinson
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Federico Formenti
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NB, USA
| | - Ross D Pollock
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Man H, Rueda J, Vega J, Vinstrup J, Andersen LL, Navarro E. Identification of physically demanding work tasks among cleaners: field study using electromyography. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:748-755. [PMID: 38913853 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
While chronic forearm pain is a common and debilitating condition among cleaners, the most physically demanding tasks remain unidentified. The present field study examines forearm muscle activity during 9 common cleaning tasks in a real working environment. Seven healthy cleaners participated in this study (age: 35.17 ± 9.62 yr; height: 168.17 ± 8.06 cm; weight: 77.14 ± 13.78 kg; experience: 5.60 ± 3.29 yr). Surface wireless electromyography (EMG) was recorded from 2 muscles on both sides of the upper limb, flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), and extensor carpi radialis (ECR), and normalized to maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC). Top-3 demanding high-force tasks (90th percentile EMG) were the rough floor, dirty rough floor, and office floor mopping for the FCU, and mopping high walls, ceiling mopping, and baize cleaning for the ECR. Top-3 static work tasks (10th percentile EMG) were mopping low walls, ceiling mopping, and dirty rough floors mopping for the FCU and mopping of high walls, low walls, and ceiling for the ECR. The study identified the forearm muscles' most physically demanding work tasks during cleaning tasks. The development of better working tools is recommended to avoid high-force overload as well as prolonged static overload of these muscles in cleaners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Man
- Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Departamento de Salud y Rendimiento Humano, C/ de Martín Fierro, 7, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Javier Rueda
- Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Departamento de Salud y Rendimiento Humano, C/ de Martín Fierro, 7, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Jesús Vega
- Geseme SL, Departamento de Biomecánica y Salud Laboral, C. d'Aragó, 25, Barcelona 08015, Spain
| | - Jonas Vinstrup
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Department of Ergonomic Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars L Andersen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Department of Ergonomic Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Enrique Navarro
- Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Departamento de Salud y Rendimiento Humano, C/ de Martín Fierro, 7, Madrid 28040, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Versloot AHC, Jackson JA, van Rijn RM, Elbers RG, Søgaard K, Macri EM, Koes B, Burdorf A, Chiarotto A, Gerger H. Physical and psychosocial work-related exposures and the occurrence of disorders of the shoulder: A systematic review update. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2024; 118:104277. [PMID: 38579494 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2024.104277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
This review is an update of a previous systematic review and assesses the evidence for the association of work-related physical and psychosocial risk factors and specific disorders of the shoulders. Medline, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Central and PsycINFO were searched and study eligibility and risk of bias assessment was performed by two independent reviewers. A total of 14 new articles were added with the majority focusing on rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) with seven studies. Nine articles reported psychosocial exposures in addition to physical exposures. The strongest evidence was found for the association between elevation, repetition, force and vibration and the occurrence of SIS and tendinosis/tendonitis. Evidence also suggests that psychosocial exposures are associated with the occurrence of RCS and tendinosis/tendonitis. Other findings were inconsistent which prevents drawing strong conclusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelotte H C Versloot
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Jennie A Jackson
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Pychology, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Rogier M van Rijn
- Codarts Rotterdam, University of the Arts, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; PErforming Artist and Athlete Research Lab (PEARL), Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roy G Elbers
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karen Søgaard
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health & the Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Dep of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Erin M Macri
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Koes
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health & the Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Alex Burdorf
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Chiarotto
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Heike Gerger
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Koch M, Forsman M, Enquist H, Baare Olsen H, Søgaard K, Sjøgaard G, Østensvik T, Nilsen P, Andersen LL, Due Jacobsen M, Brandt M, Westgaard R, Mork PJ, Fan X, Wærsted M, Veiersted KB. Frequency of breaks, amount of muscular rest, and sustained muscle activity related to neck pain in a pooled dataset. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297859. [PMID: 38917191 PMCID: PMC11198897 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck pain remains a persistent challenge in modern society and is frequently encountered across a wide range of occupations, particularly those involving repetitive and monotonous tasks. It might be expected that patterns of trapezius muscle activity at work, characterized by few breaks and prolonged periods of sustained muscle activity, are linked to neck pain. However, previous cross-sectional studies have generally failed to establish a definitive association. While some longitudinal studies have suggested that extended periods of heightened muscle activity could be a risk factor for neck pain, these findings often relied on limited participant numbers or specific professional groups. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between trapezius muscle activity and neck pain by pooling data from seven Scandinavian research institutes encompassing a diverse range of occupational backgrounds. METHODS Electromyographic (EMG) data for the upper trapezius muscle, collected during working hours, were coupled with questionnaire responses pertaining to neck pain, individual characteristics, and potential confounding variables for a total of 731 subjects. Additionally, longitudinal data from 258 subjects were available. The various EMG datasets were consolidated into a standardized format, and efforts were made to harmonize inquiries about neck pain. Regression analyses, adjusting for sex and height, were conducted to explore the associations between muscle activity variables and neck pain. An exposure index was devised to quantify the cumulative neck load experienced during working hours and to differentiate between various occupational categories. RESULTS The cross-sectional data displayed a distinct pattern characterized by positive associations for brief periods of sustained muscle activity (SUMA) and negative associations for prolonged SUMA-periods and neck pain. The longitudinal data exhibited a contrasting trend, although it was not as pronounced as the cross-sectional findings. When employing the exposure index, notable differences in cumulative muscle load emerged among occupational groups, and positive associations with longitudinal neck pain were identified. DISCUSSION The results suggest that individuals with neck pain experience higher cumulative workloads and extended periods of muscle activity over the long term. In the short term, they appear to compensate by taking frequent short breaks, resulting in a lower cumulative workload. Regardless of their occupation, it is crucial to distribute work breaks throughout the workday to ensure that the cumulative load remains manageable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Koch
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mikael Forsman
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Enquist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Henrik Baare Olsen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Karen Søgaard
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Gisela Sjøgaard
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Petter Nilsen
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, Ås, Norway
| | - Lars Louis Andersen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Markus Due Jacobsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Brandt
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rolf Westgaard
- Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Paul Jarle Mork
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Xuelong Fan
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Morten Wærsted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kaj Bo Veiersted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pérez-Salazar MJ, Caballero D, Sánchez-Margallo JA, Sánchez-Margallo FM. Comparative Study of Ergonomics in Conventional and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:3840. [PMID: 38931624 PMCID: PMC11207857 DOI: 10.3390/s24123840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to implement a set of wearable technologies to record and analyze the surgeon's physiological and ergonomic parameters during the performance of conventional and robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery, comparing the ergonomics and stress levels of surgeons during surgical procedures. METHODS This study was organized in two different settings: simulator tasks and experimental model surgical procedures. The participating surgeons performed the tasks and surgical procedures in both laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery in a randomized fashion. Different wearable technologies were used to record the surgeons' posture, muscle activity, electrodermal activity and electrocardiography signal during the surgical practice. RESULTS The simulator study involved six surgeons: three experienced (>100 laparoscopic procedures performed; 36.33 ± 13.65 years old) and three novices (<100 laparoscopic procedures; 29.33 ± 8.39 years old). Three surgeons of different surgical specialties with experience in laparoscopic surgery (>100 laparoscopic procedures performed; 37.00 ± 5.29 years old), but without experience in surgical robotics, participated in the experimental model study. The participating surgeons showed an increased level of stress during the robotic-assisted surgical procedures. Overall, improved surgeon posture was obtained during robotic-assisted surgery, with a reduction in localized muscle fatigue. CONCLUSIONS A set of wearable technologies was implemented to measure and analyze surgeon physiological and ergonomic parameters. Robotic-assisted procedures showed better ergonomic outcomes for the surgeon compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery. Ergonomic analysis allows us to optimize surgeon performance and improve surgical training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel J. Pérez-Salazar
- Bioengineering and Health Technologies Unit, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, ES-10004 Cáceres, Spain; (M.J.P.-S.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniel Caballero
- Bioengineering and Health Technologies Unit, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, ES-10004 Cáceres, Spain; (M.J.P.-S.); (D.C.)
| | - Juan A. Sánchez-Margallo
- Bioengineering and Health Technologies Unit, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, ES-10004 Cáceres, Spain; (M.J.P.-S.); (D.C.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lind CM. A Rapid Review on the Effectiveness and Use of Wearable Biofeedback Motion Capture Systems in Ergonomics to Mitigate Adverse Postures and Movements of the Upper Body. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:3345. [PMID: 38894134 PMCID: PMC11175029 DOI: 10.3390/s24113345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Work-related diseases and disorders remain a significant global health concern, necessitating multifaceted measures for mitigation. One potential measure is work technique training utilizing augmented feedback through wearable motion capture systems. However, there exists a research gap regarding its current effectiveness in both real work environments and controlled settings, as well as its ability to reduce postural exposure and retention effects over short, medium, and long durations. A rapid review was conducted, utilizing two databases and three previous literature reviews to identify relevant studies published within the last twenty years, including recent literature up to the end of 2023. Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 14 were of high or moderate quality. These studies were summarized descriptively, and the strength of evidence was assessed. Among the included studies, six were rated as high quality, while eight were considered moderate quality. Notably, the reporting of participation rates, blinding of assessors, and a-priori power calculations were infrequently performed. Four studies were conducted in real work environments, while ten were conducted in controlled settings. Vibration feedback was the most common feedback type utilized (n = 9), followed by auditory (n = 7) and visual feedback (n = 1). All studies employed corrective feedback initiated by the system. In controlled environments, evidence regarding the effectiveness of augmented feedback from wearable motion capture systems to reduce postural exposure ranged from strong evidence to no evidence, depending on the time elapsed after feedback administration. Conversely, for studies conducted in real work environments, the evidence ranged from very limited evidence to no evidence. Future reach needs are identified and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carl M Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mänttäri S, Rauttola AP, Halonen J, Karkulehto J, Säynäjäkangas P, Oksa J. Effects of upper-limb exoskeleton on muscle activity in tasks requiring arm elevation: Part II - In-field experiments in construction industry settings. Work 2024:WOR230218. [PMID: 38578911 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The body of literature regarding the use of an upper limb exoskeleton during authentic working conditions is sparse. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an upper limb exoskeleton in reducing muscle strain during authentic industrial construction work. Methods Fifteen male participants, comprising of roofers, scaffolders, builders, bricklayers, and graders performing overhead work participated in the study. During work without (REF) and with exoskeleton (EXO), muscle activity from 8 muscles, heart rate (HR), metabolic equivalent (MET), and upper arm elevation angles were recorded. Results When using the exoskeleton, a significant reduction of 20.2% in average muscle activity of 8 muscles was found. The largest effect focused on m. deltoideus, where 46.2 and 32.2% reduction occurred in medial and anterior parts of the muscle, respectively. HR and MET were unaffected. Upper arm elevation angles were similar between REF and EXO, indicating equal biomechanical loading. Conclusions This study indicates that exoskeletons show great promise in reducing the potential for musculoskeletal strain during authentic overhead construction work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satu Mänttäri
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| | - Ari-Pekka Rauttola
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| | - Janne Halonen
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| | - Jutta Karkulehto
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| | - Pihla Säynäjäkangas
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| | - Juha Oksa
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Frasie A, Bertrand-Charette M, Compagnat M, Bouyer LJ, Roy JS. Validation of the Borg CR10 Scale for the evaluation of shoulder perceived fatigue during work-related tasks. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2024; 116:104200. [PMID: 38091692 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.104200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Work-related upper extremity disorders (WRUEDs) are highly prevalent and costly. Development of fatigue is thought to be one of the causes of WRUEDs. Perceived fatigue can be assessed with the Borg CR Scale® (Borg CR10). The objective was to validate the Borg CR10 for the evaluation of shoulder perceived fatigue during lifting tasks. Seventy adults in working age performed three rhythmic lifting tasks with two loads (15% and 30% of maximal voluntary contraction). Using generalized repeated-measures ANOVA (Generalized Estimating Equations), statistically significant Task and Load effects (p < 0.001), as well as Task × Load interaction effects (p < 0.0001) were observed on Borg CR10, without any influence of sex. The Borg CR10 is a valid tool to assess shoulder perceived fatigue as it can discriminate between tasks of different difficulty levels in term of complexity, height, and resistance, regardless of sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Frasie
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris). Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval. Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Michaël Bertrand-Charette
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris). Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval. Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Maxence Compagnat
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris). Québec, QC, Canada; HAVAE EA6310 (Handicap, Aging, Autonomy, Environment), IFRH, University of Limoges, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in the University Hospital Center of Limoges: Limoges, France
| | - Laurent J Bouyer
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris). Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval. Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Roy
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris). Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval. Québec, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jackson JA, Mathiassen SE, Rydström K, Johansson K. Protocol for an observational study of working conditions and musculoskeletal health in Swedish online retail warehousing from the perspective of sex/gender and place of birth. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297569. [PMID: 38394162 PMCID: PMC10889605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
European and International sustainable development agendas aim to reduce inequalities in working conditions and work-related health, yet disparate occupational health outcomes are evident between both men and women and domestic- and foreign-born workers. In Sweden, major growth in online retail warehousing has increased occupational opportunities for foreign-born workers. The rapid change has left research lagging on working conditions, i.e., employment conditions, facility design, work organisation, physical and psychosocial work environment conditions, and their effects on worker health. Further, no known studies have considered patterns of inequality related to these factors. The overall aim of this study is to describe working conditions and musculoskeletal health in online retail warehousing, determine the extent to which differences exist related to sex/gender and place of birth (as a proxy for race/ethnicity), and examine factors at the organisational and individual levels to understand why any differences exist. Three online retail warehouses, each employing 50-150 operations workers performing receiving, order picking, order packing and dispatching tasks will be recruited. Warehouses will, to the extent possible, differ in their extent of digital technology use. Employment conditions, facility design (including digital tool use), work organisation, physical and psychosocial work environment conditions and worker health will be assessed by survey, interview and technical measurements. Analysis of quantitative data stratified by sex and place of birth will consider the extent to which inequalities exist. Focus group interviews with operations employees and in-depth interviews with managers, union and health and safety representatives will be conducted to assess how employee working conditions and musculoskeletal health are related to inequality regimes of sex/gender and/or race/ethnicity in organisational processes and practices in online retail warehousing. The study is pre-registered with the Open Science Framework. This study will describe working conditions and health in online retail warehouse workers and consider the extent to which patterns of inequality exist based on sex/gender and place of birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennie A. Jackson
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational Health Science and Psychology, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Svend Erik Mathiassen
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational Health Science and Psychology, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Klara Rydström
- Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Kristina Johansson
- Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fan X, Yang L, Young N, Kaner I, Kjellman M, Forsman M. Ergonomics and performance of using prismatic loupes in simulated surgical tasks among surgeons - a randomized controlled, cross-over trial. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1257365. [PMID: 38264242 PMCID: PMC10803506 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1257365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recently developed prismatic loupes may mitigate the high physical workload and risk of neck disorders associated with traditional surgical loupes among surgeons. However, research in this area, particularly among surgeons, is sparse. This study examines the impact of prismatic loupes on surgeons' physical workload, musculoskeletal discomfort, and performance during simulated surgical tasks. Materials and methods Nineteen out of twenty recruited surgeons performed three tasks in a fixed-order with their own loupes and both low-tilt (LT) and high-tilt (HT) prismatic loupes, in a randomized order. The primary outcomes were the median inclination angles and velocities of the head, trunk, and upper arms, along with the median muscle activity of the cervical erector spinae (CES), upper trapezius (UT), and lumbar erector spinae (LES) for each pair of loupes. The secondary outcomes included performance (completion time and errors), perceived body-part discomfort, and subjective evaluation of the three pairs of loupes. Results Using prismatic loupes, either LT or HT, compared with the surgeons' own loupes yielded lower head inclinations (all p < 0.001), lower neck muscle activity (all p < 0.05), and lower neck discomfort in indirect comparisons (p < 0.01) with no significant difference in surgical errors (p = 0.628). However, HT loupes resulted in a longer task completion time in two tasks (p < 0.001). Most surgeons preferred LT loupes (N = 12) for their comfort and visual functions. Discussion The results indicate that prismatic loupes can reduce physical workload in the neck during simulated surgical task, with no significant difference in surgical errors. Future studies are needed to investigate the long-term effects of prismatic loupes among surgeons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuelong Fan
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Liyun Yang
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nathalie Young
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ilayda Kaner
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Kjellman
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Forsman
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health (CBH), KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Huddinge, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mänttäri S, Rauttola AP, Halonen J, Karkulehto J, Säynäjäkangas P, Oksa J. Effects of an exoskeleton on muscle activity in tasks requiring arm elevation: Part I - Experiments in a controlled laboratory setting. Work 2024; 77:1179-1188. [PMID: 37980590 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term work with elevated arms, or overhead work, is a risk factor for musculoskeletal complaints and disorders. Upper-limb exoskeletons are a promising tool for reducing occupational workload when working with hands above shoulder level. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of upper-limb exoskeleton on muscular and physical strain and perceived exertion during dynamic work at four different shoulder joint angles. Further, we evaluated if there are any negative effects associated with the use of exoskeleton. METHODS A total of 15 student participants performed dynamic work in laboratory setting with and without an exoskeleton at four different shoulder angles: 60, 90, 120 and 150 degrees. Muscle electrical activity from 8 muscles of the upper body, perceived exertion, and heart rate were measured during the work task, and grip strength, muscle stiffness, tone, and elasticity from six muscles, m. deltoideus physiological cross-sectional area and muscle fiber pennation angle, and nerve conduction velocity were measured before and after the work task. RESULTS Based on the results, the use of exoskeleton significantly reduced the muscle activity of the upper limb, shoulder, and back muscles. The reduction was most significant when the arm elevation was 120°, and in m. deltoideus muscle activity. RPE was also positively affected indicating reduction in workload when using exoskeleton. CONCLUSION The results suggest that the use of upper limb exoskeleton has potential to reduce physical workload during overhead work and, consequently, reduce the risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satu Mänttäri
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ari-Pekka Rauttola
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Janne Halonen
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jutta Karkulehto
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Finland
| | - Pihla Säynäjäkangas
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Finland
| | - Juha Oksa
- Work Ability and Working Careers, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Oulu, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen Y, Yang C, Côté JN. Few sex-specific effects of fatigue on muscle synergies in a repetitive pointing task. J Biomech 2024; 163:111905. [PMID: 38183760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have identified some sex differences in how individual muscles change their activation during repetitive multi-joint arm motion-induced fatigue. However, little is known about how indicators of multi-muscle coordination change with fatigue in males and females. Fifty-six (29 females) asymptomatic young adults performed a repetitive, forward-backward pointing task until scoring 8/10 on a Borg CR10 scale while surface electromyographic activity of upper trapezius, anterior deltoid, biceps brachii, and triceps brachii was recorded. Activation coefficient, synergy structure, and relative weight of each muscle within synergies were calculated using the non-negative matrix factorization method. Two muscle synergies were extracted from the fatiguing task. The synergy structures were mostly preserved after fatigue, while the activation coefficients were altered. A significant Sex × Fatigue interaction effect showed more use of the anterior deltoid in males especially before fatigue in synergy 1 during shoulder stabilization (p = 0.04). As for synergy 2, it was characterized by variations in the relative weight of biceps, which was higher by 16 % in females compared to males (p = 0.04), and increased with fatigue (p = 0.03) during the elbow flexion acceleration phase and the deceleration phase of the backward pointing movement. Findings suggest that both sexes adapted to fatigue similarly, using fixed synergy structures, with alterations in synergy activation patterns and relative weights of individual muscles. Results support previous findings of an important role for the biceps and anterior deltoid in explaining sex differences in patterns of repetitive motion-induced upper limb fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Chen
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, 3205 Alton-Goldbloom Place, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada.
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, 3205 Alton-Goldbloom Place, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada; Max Nader Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies and Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
| | - Julie N Côté
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, 3205 Alton-Goldbloom Place, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kia K, Hwang J, Kim JH. Effects of error rates and target sizes on neck and shoulder biomechanical loads during augmented reality interactions. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2023; 113:104107. [PMID: 37523813 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.104107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Augmented reality (AR) interactions have been associated with increased biomechanical loads on the neck and shoulders. To provide a better understanding of the factors that may impact such biomechanical loads, this repeated-measures laboratory study evaluated the effects of error rates and target sizes on neck and shoulder biomechanical loads during two standardized AR tasks (omni-directional pointing and cube placing). Twenty participants performed the two AR tasks with different error rates and target sizes. During the tasks, angles, moments, and muscle activity in the neck and shoulders were measured. The results showed that the target sizes and error rates significantly affected angles, moments, and muscle activity in the neck and shoulder regions. Specifically, the presence of errors increased neck extension, shoulder flexion angles and associated moments. Muscle activity in the neck (splenius capitis) and shoulder (anterior and medial deltoids) also increased when the errors were introduced. Moreover, interacting with larger targets resulted in greater neck extension moments and shoulder abduction angles along with higher muscle activity in the splenius capitis and upper trapezius muscles. These findings indicate the importance of reducing errors and incorporating appropriate target sizes in the AR interfaces to minimize risks of musculoskeletal discomfort and injuries in the neck and shoulders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiana Kia
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Jaejin Hwang
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, USA
| | - Jeong Ho Kim
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Roman-Liu D, Kamińska J, Tokarski T. Differences in lumbar spine intradiscal pressure between standing and sitting postures: a comprehensive literature review. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16176. [PMID: 37872945 PMCID: PMC10590571 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), especially in the lumbar spine, are a leading concern in occupational health. Work activities associated with excessive exposure are a source of risk for MSDs. The optimal design of workplaces requires changes in both sitting and standing postures. In order to secure such a design scientifically proved quantitative data are needed that would allow for the assessment of differences in spine load due to body posture and/or exerted force. Intradiscal pressure (IP) measurement in the lumbar spine is the most direct method of estimating spinal loads. Hence, this study aims at the quantitative evaluation of differences in lumbar spine load due to body posture and exerted forces, based on IP reported in publications obtained from a comprehensive review of the available literature. Methodology In order to collect data from studies measuring IP in the lumbar spine, three databases were searched. Studies with IP for living adults, measured in various sitting and standing postures, where one of these was standing upright, were included in the analysis. For data to be comparable between studies, the IP for each position was referenced to upright standing. Where different studies presented IP for the same postures, those relative IPs (rIP) were merged. Then, an analysis of the respective outcomes was conducted to find the possible relationship of IPs dependent on a specific posture. Results A preliminary analysis of the reviewed papers returned nine items fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After merging relative IPs from different studies, rIP for 27 sitting and 26 standing postures was yielded. Some of the data were useful for deriving mathematical equations expressing rIP as a function of back flexion angle and exerted force in the form of a second degree polynomial equation for the standing and sitting positions. The equations showed that for the standing posture, the increase in IP with increasing back flexion angle is steeper when applying an external force than when maintaining body position only. In a sitting position with the back flexed at 20°, adding 10 kg to each hand increases the IP by about 50%. According to the equations developed, for back flexion angles less than 20°, the IP is greater in sitting than in standing. When the angle is greater than 20°, the IP in the sitting position is less than in the standing position at the same angle of back flexion. Conclusions Analysis of the data from the reviewed papers showed that: sitting without support increases IP by about 30% in relation to upright standing; a polynomial of the second degree defines changes in IP as a function of back flexion for for both postures. There are differences in the pattern of changes in IP with a back flexion angle between sitting and standing postures, as back flexion in standing increases IP more than in sitting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Roman-Liu
- Ergonomics, Central Institute for Labour Protection–National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kamińska
- Ergonomics, Central Institute for Labour Protection–National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Tokarski
- Ergonomics, Central Institute for Labour Protection–National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Luger T, Bonsch R, Seibt R, Krämer B, Rieger MA, Steinhilber B. Intraoperative active and passive breaks during minimally invasive surgery influence upper extremity physical strain and physical stress response-A controlled, randomized cross-over, laboratory trial. Surg Endosc 2023:10.1007/s00464-023-10042-9. [PMID: 37084097 PMCID: PMC10120511 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-023-10042-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Investigate the effect of passive, active or no intra-operative work breaks on static, median and peak muscular activity, muscular fatigue, upper body postures, heart rate, and heart rate variability. BACKGROUND Although laparoscopic surgery is preferred over open surgery for the benefit of the patient, it puts the surgeons at higher risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders especially due to the less dynamic and awkward working posture. The organizational intervention intraoperative work break is a workplace strategy that has previously demonstrated positive effects in small-scale intervention studies. METHODS Twenty-one surgeons were exposed to three 90-min conditions: no breaks, 2.5-min passive (standing rest) or active (targeted stretching and mobilization exercises) breaks after 30-min work blocks. Muscular activity and fatigue of back, shoulder and forearm muscles were assessed by surface electromyography; upper body posture, i.e., spinal curvature, by inclination sensors; and heart rate and variability (HRV) by electrocardiography. Generalized estimating equations were used for statistical analyses. This study (NCT03715816) was conducted from March 2019 to October 2020. RESULTS The HRV-metric SDNN tended to be higher, but not statistically significantly, in the intervention conditions compared to the control condition. No statistically significant effects of both interventions were detected for muscular activity, joint angles or heart rate. CONCLUSION Intraoperative work breaks, whether passive or active, may counteract shoulder muscular fatigue and increase heart rate variability. This tendency may play a role in a reduced risk for developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders and acute physical stress responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tessy Luger
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Rosina Bonsch
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, Clinic for Hand, BG Clinic Tübingen, Schnarrenbergstraße 95, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Robert Seibt
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernhard Krämer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Tübingen, Calwerstraße 7, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Monika A Rieger
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Steinhilber
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, Eberhard Karls University and University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ohlendorf D, Schlenke J, Nazzal Y, Dogru F, Karassavidis I, Holzgreve F, Oremek G, Maurer-Grubinger C, Groneberg DA, Wanke EM. Musculoskeletal complaints, postural patterns and psychosocial workplace predictors in police officers from an organizational unit of a German federal state police force - a study protocol. J Occup Med Toxicol 2023; 18:6. [PMID: 37055863 PMCID: PMC10100165 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-023-00372-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Police officers are exposed to a particularly high risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and psychosocial stress due to their working conditions. Therefore, the aim of this project will be to assess the occupational physical and mental health of police officers from an organizational unit of the police force of a German federal state. METHODS The aim is to analyze at least 200 active police officers of a state police force in Germany between the age of 18 and 65 years. In a mixed-methods design, a video raster stereography-based measurement of the upper body posture and a modified version of the Nordic Questionnaire (NQ) will be used for investigating their physical health, while the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) and the Operational Police Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-Op) will be used to analyze their mental health. In addition, job-specific psychosocial factors at the workplace will be assessed (using self-designed questions that were previously evaluated in an expert interview). DISCUSSION To date, there is a lack of current questionnaire-based data on the prevalence of MSDs in police officers, or of MSDs associated with injuries or psychosocial workplace factors. Thus, in this study, these MSDs will be correlated with quantitative upper body posture data. If these results prove an increased physical and/or psychosocial stress, then the existing workplace health promotion measures should be analyzed and modified if necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ohlendorf
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Janna Schlenke
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Yunes Nazzal
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Faiz Dogru
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ioannis Karassavidis
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Fabian Holzgreve
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Gerhard Oremek
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christian Maurer-Grubinger
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - David A Groneberg
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Eileen M Wanke
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Brambilla C, Lavit Nicora M, Storm F, Reni G, Malosio M, Scano A. Biomechanical Assessments of the Upper Limb for Determining Fatigue, Strain and Effort from the Laboratory to the Industrial Working Place: A Systematic Review. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10040445. [PMID: 37106632 PMCID: PMC10135542 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10040445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent human-centered developments in the industrial field (Industry 5.0) lead companies and stakeholders to ensure the wellbeing of their workers with assessments of upper limb performance in the workplace, with the aim of reducing work-related diseases and improving awareness of the physical status of workers, by assessing motor performance, fatigue, strain and effort. Such approaches are usually developed in laboratories and only at times they are translated to on-field applications; few studies summarized common practices for the assessments. Therefore, our aim is to review the current state-of-the-art approaches used for the assessment of fatigue, strain and effort in working scenarios and to analyze in detail the differences between studies that take place in the laboratory and in the workplace, in order to give insights on future trends and directions. A systematic review of the studies aimed at evaluating the motor performance, fatigue, strain and effort of the upper limb targeting working scenarios is presented. A total of 1375 articles were found in scientific databases and 288 were analyzed. About half of the scientific articles are focused on laboratory pilot studies investigating effort and fatigue in laboratories, while the other half are set in working places. Our results showed that assessing upper limb biomechanics is quite common in the field, but it is mostly performed with instrumental assessments in laboratory studies, while questionnaires and scales are preferred in working places. Future directions may be oriented towards multi-domain approaches able to exploit the potential of combined analyses, exploitation of instrumental approaches in workplace, targeting a wider range of people and implementing more structured trials to translate pilot studies to real practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Brambilla
- Istituto di Sistemi e Tecnologie Industriali Intelligenti per il Manifatturiero Avanzato (STIIMA), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Previati 1/E, 23900 Lecco, Italy
| | - Matteo Lavit Nicora
- Istituto di Sistemi e Tecnologie Industriali Intelligenti per il Manifatturiero Avanzato (STIIMA), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Previati 1/E, 23900 Lecco, Italy
- Industrial Engineering Department, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Storm
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Scientific Institute, IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, 23842 Bosisio Parini, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Reni
- Informatics Department, Autonomous Province of Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Matteo Malosio
- Istituto di Sistemi e Tecnologie Industriali Intelligenti per il Manifatturiero Avanzato (STIIMA), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Previati 1/E, 23900 Lecco, Italy
| | - Alessandro Scano
- Istituto di Sistemi e Tecnologie Industriali Intelligenti per il Manifatturiero Avanzato (STIIMA), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Previati 1/E, 23900 Lecco, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hoppe P, Reibnegger H, Boxhofer E, Leeb A, Frenner I, Schwartz B. Physical and psychological strain in upper Austrian elementary school teachers - an observational study. ERGONOMICS 2023; 66:554-568. [PMID: 35866638 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2100927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the main cause of pain leading to high economic burden and psychosocial disadvantages. In addition, psychological stress impacts the overall health as well as the quality of life. Elementary school teachers clearly are a cohort with a high risk of MSDs and stress. The 'BelaPrim' study was conducted to determine the physical and psychological conditions of elementary school teachers in Upper Austria and to investigate the influence of physical and psychological parameters on MSDs. Physical and mental strain was determined with the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and the 11-item short version of a German work-related behaviour and experience assessment (AVEM), respectively. Despite a high prevalence of MSDs, high scores were found on personality dimensions. Furthermore, qualitative results indicated the need of administrative/pedagogical support. A linear regression model showed that body height (+), work engagement (+), and emotions (-) are predictors for the occurrence of back pain.Practitioner summary: Despite a high proportion of physical complaints, Upper Austrian elementary school teachers show good mental health. Body height, a high work engagement, and low level of emotions are predictors for the occurrence of back pain. Health initiatives for elementary schools should have a multifactorial view to improve teachers' health.Abbreviations: BA: professional ambition; BE: willingness to spend; VB: striving for perfection PE: ability to distance; DF: tendency to resign in case of failure; RT: offensive problem-solving: OP; inner calm and balance; IR: experiencing success at work; EE: life satisfaction; LZ and SU: experiencing social support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hoppe
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Applied Sciences for Health Professions Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
| | - Harald Reibnegger
- Department of Research and Development, Private University of Education, Diocese Linz, Austria
| | - Emmerich Boxhofer
- Department of Research and Development, Private University of Education, Diocese Linz, Austria
| | - Astrid Leeb
- eduResearch - Upper Austrian Centre for Education Research, Linz, Austria
| | - Iris Frenner
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Applied Sciences for Health Professions Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
| | - Bernhard Schwartz
- Department of Research and Development, University of Applied Sciences for Health Professions Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ghasemi MS, Siadat M, Abdulrazak B, Dehghan N, Ibarra-Mejia G, Forogh B. Design and ergonomic evaluation of a new adapted endoscope holder to reduce muscle pressure and discomfort during endoscopy. Work 2023; 76:403-410. [PMID: 36776095 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laparoscopic surgeons who regularly perform endoscopy are more likely to develop musculoskeletal disorders than other internal medicine specialists, a difference that attributed to repetitive movements, poor postures, and sub-optimal equipment design. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to design, build, and evaluate an endoscope holder for reducing the static load applied by the weight of the endoscope, in order to reduce musculoskeletal disorders risk factors in the surgeon's hand, shoulder and back issues regions. METHODS A new endoscope holder was designed according to ergonomic design principles. The designed holder was evaluated by surface electromyography (sEMG) and discomfort assessment including 15 laparoscopic surgeons. The results were analyzed with centrality statistics and compared with the independent t-test using SPSS version 22. RESULTS The evaluation of the new endoscope holder shows a statistical significant decrease in the average electrical activity of biceps brachii, triceps brachii, lateral deltoid, T9 Thoracic erector spinae, L4 Lumbar erector spinae, and external oblique after using the holder (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The results shows that using the new endoscope holder is associated with a lower level of discomfort, as well as a lower induced muscle activity. The results also highlight the need to upgrade the holder to offer rotability in all directions (perpendicular to the ground) which will be included in the next design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Sadegh Ghasemi
- Department of Ergonomics, Faculty of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Siadat
- Department of Ergonomics, Faculty of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bessam Abdulrazak
- Ambient Intelligence Laboratory (AMI-Lab), Computer Science Department, Faculty of Science, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Naser Dehghan
- Ambient Intelligence Laboratory (AMI-Lab), Computer Science Department, Faculty of Science, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Gabriel Ibarra-Mejia
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Bijan Forogh
- Neuromusculoskeletal Research Center, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fan X, Forsman M, Yang L, Lind CM, Kjellman M. Surgeons' physical workload in open surgery versus robot-assisted surgery and nonsurgical tasks. Surg Endosc 2022; 36:8178-8194. [PMID: 35589973 PMCID: PMC9613719 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-022-09256-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common among surgeons, and its prevalence varies among surgical modalities. There are conflicting results concerning the correlation between adverse work exposures and MSD prevalence in different surgical modalities. The progress of rationalization in health care may lead to job intensification for surgeons, but the literature is scarce regarding to what extent such intensification influences the physical workload in surgery. The objectives of this study were to quantify the physical workload in open surgery and compare it to that in (1) nonsurgical tasks and (2) two surgeon roles in robot-assisted surgery (RAS). METHODS The physical workload of 22 surgeons (12 performing open surgery and 10 RAS) was measured during surgical workdays, which includes trapezius muscle activity from electromyography, and posture and movement of the head, upper arms and trunk from inertial measurement units. The physical workload of surgeons in open surgery was compared to that in nonsurgical tasks, and to the chief and assistant surgeons in RAS, and to the corresponding proposed action levels. Mixed-effects models were used to analyze the differences. RESULTS Open surgery constituted more than half of a surgical workday. It was associated with more awkward postures of the head and trunk than nonsurgical tasks. It was also associated with higher trapezius muscle activity levels, less muscle rest time and a higher proportion of sustained low muscle activity than nonsurgical tasks and the two roles in RAS. The head inclination and trapezius activity in open surgery exceeded the proposed action levels. CONCLUSIONS The physical workload of surgeons in open surgery, which exceeded the proposed action levels, was higher than that in RAS and that in nonsurgical tasks. Demands of increased operation time may result in higher physical workload for open surgeons, which poses an increased risk of MSDs. Risk-reducing measures are, therefore, needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuelong Fan
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, 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, Hälsovägen 11C, 14157 Huddinge, Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Liyun Yang
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl M. Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Kjellman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Department of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Moyen-Sylvestre B, Goubault É, Begon M, Côté JN, Bouffard J, Dal Maso F. Power Spectrum of Acceleration and Angular Velocity Signals as Indicators of Muscle Fatigue during Upper Limb Low-Load Repetitive Tasks. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:s22208008. [PMID: 36298357 PMCID: PMC9608815 DOI: 10.3390/s22208008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Muscle fatigue is a risk factor for developing musculoskeletal disorders during low-load repetitive tasks. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of muscle fatigue on power spectrum changes of upper limb and trunk acceleration and angular velocity during a repetitive pointing task (RPT) and a work task. Twenty-four participants equipped with 11 inertial measurement units, that include acceleration and gyroscope sensors, performed a tea bag filling work task before and immediately after a fatiguing RPT. During the RPT, the power spectrum of acceleration and angular velocity increased in the movement and in 6-12 Hz frequency bands for sensors positioned on the head, sternum, and pelvis. Alternatively, for the sensor positioned on the hand, the power spectrum of acceleration and angular velocity decreased in the movement frequency band. During the work task, following the performance of the fatiguing RPT, the power spectrum of acceleration and angular velocity increased in the movement frequency band for sensors positioned on the head, sternum, pelvis, and arm. Interestingly, for both the RPT and work task, Cohens' d effect sizes were systematically larger for results extracted from angular velocity than acceleration. Although fatigue-related changes were task-specific between the RPT and the work task, fatigue systematically increased the power spectrum in the movement frequency band for the head, sternum, pelvis, which highlights the relevance of this indicator for assessing fatigue. Angular velocity may be more efficient to assess fatigue than acceleration. The use of low cost, wearable, and uncalibrated sensors, such as acceleration and gyroscope, in industrial settings is promising to assess muscle fatigue in workers assigned to upper limb repetitive tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Étienne Goubault
- School of Kinesiology and Physical Activity Science, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Mickaël Begon
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- School of Kinesiology and Physical Activity Science, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Julie N. Côté
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Jason Bouffard
- Department of Kinesiology, Université Laval, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Fabien Dal Maso
- School of Kinesiology and Physical Activity Science, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherche sur le Cerveau et l’Apprentissage, Montreal, QC H7N 0A5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wu SK, Chen HY, You JY, Bau JG, Lin YC, Kuo LC. Outcomes of active cervical therapeutic exercise on dynamic intervertebral foramen changes in neck pain patients with disc herniation. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:728. [PMID: 35906546 PMCID: PMC9338473 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05670-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To better understand biomechanical factors that affect intervertebral alignment throughout active therapeutic exercise, it is necessary to determine spinal kinematics when subjects perform spinal exercises. This study aims to investigate the outcomes of active cervical therapeutic exercise on intervertebral foramen changes in neck pain patients with disc herniation. METHODS Thirty diagnosed C4/5 and/or C5/6 disc-herniated patients receiving an 8-week cervical therapeutic exercise program were followed up with videofluoroscopic images. The dynamic changes in the foramen were computed at different timepoints, including the neutral position, end-range positions in cervical flexion-extension, protrusion-retraction, and lateral flexion movements. RESULTS The results showed that the active cervical flexion, retraction, and lateral flexion away from the affected side movements increased the area of the patients' intervertebral foramen; while the active extension, protrusion, and lateral flexion toward the affected side reduced the areas of intervertebral foramen before treatment. After the treatment, the active cervical flexion significantly increased the C2/3, C3/4, and C6/7 foramen area by 5.02-8.67% (p = 0.001 ~ 0.029), and the extension exercise significantly reduced the C2/3 and C4/5 area by 5.12-9.18% (p = 0.001 ~ 0.006) compared to the baseline. Active retraction movement significantly increased the foramen area from C2/3 to C6/7 by 3.82-8.66% (p = 0.002 ~ 0.036 with exception of C5/6). Active lateral flexion away from the affected side significantly increased the foramen by 3.71-6.78% (p = 0.007 ~ 0.046 with exception of C6/7). CONCLUSIONS The 8-week therapeutic exercises including repeated cervical retraction, extension, and lateral flexion movements to the lesion led to significant changes and improvements in intervertebral foramen areas of the patients with disc herniation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN61539024.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shyi-Kuen Wu
- Department of Physical Therapy, HungKuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Han-Yu Chen
- Department of Physical Therapy, HungKuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Yuan You
- Department of Physical Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Guo Bau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, HungKuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lin
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chieh Kuo
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan. .,Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lamooki SR, Hajifar S, Kang J, Sun H, Megahed FM, Cavuoto LA. A data analytic end-to-end framework for the automated quantification of ergonomic risk factors across multiple tasks using a single wearable sensor. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 102:103732. [PMID: 35287084 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103732] [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: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Existing ergonomic risk assessment tools require monitoring of multiple risk factors. To eliminate the direct observation, we investigated the effectiveness of an end-to-end framework that works with the data from a single wearable sensor. The framework is used to identify the performed task as the major contextual risk factor, and then estimate the task duration and number of repetitions as two main indicators of task intensity. For evaluation of the framework, we recruited 37 participants to complete 10 simulated work tasks in a laboratory setting. In testing, we achieved an average accuracy of 92% for task identification, 7.3% error in estimation of task duration, and 7.1% error for counting the number of task repetitions. Moreover, we showed the utility of the framework outputs in two ergonomic tools to estimate the risk of injury. Overall, we indicated the feasibility of using data from wearable sensors to automate the ergonomic risk assessment in workplaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saeb Ragani Lamooki
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
| | - Sahand Hajifar
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
| | - Jiyeon Kang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
| | - Hongyue Sun
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
| | - Fadel M Megahed
- Farmer School of Business, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA.
| | - Lora A Cavuoto
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Garosi E, Mazloumi A, Jafari AH, Keihani A, Shamsipour M, Kordi R, Kazemi Z. Design and ergonomic assessment of a passive head/neck supporting exoskeleton for overhead work use. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 101:103699. [PMID: 35114511 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Overhead work is an important risk factor associated with musculoskeletal disorders of the neck and shoulder region. This study aimed to propose and evaluate a passive head/neck supporting exoskeleton (HNSE) as a potential ergonomic intervention for overhead work applications. Fourteen male participants were asked to perform a simulated overhead task of fastening/unfastening nut in 4 randomized sessions, characterized by two variables: neck extension angle (40% and 80% of neck maximum range of motion) and exoskeleton condition (wearing and not wearing the HNSE). Using the HNSE, significantly alleviated perceived discomfort in the neck (p-value = 0.009), right shoulder (p-value = 0.05) and left shoulder (p-value = 0.02) and reduced electromyographic activity of the right (p-value = 0.005) and left (p-value = 0.01) sternocleidomastoid muscles. However, utilizing the exoskeleton caused a remarkable increase in right (p-value = 0.04) and left (p-value = 0.05) trapezius electromyographic activities. Performance was not significantly affected by the HNSE. Although the HNSE had promising effects with respect to discomfort and muscular activity in the static overhead task, future work is still needed to investigate its effect on performance and to provide support for the generalizability of study results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Garosi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Adel Mazloumi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Amir Homayoun Jafari
- Medical Physics & Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Keihani
- Medical Physics & Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansour Shamsipour
- Department of Research Methodology and Data Analysis, Institute for Environmental Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Kordi
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Kazemi
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Norasi H, Tetteh E, Sarker P, Mirka GA, Hallbeck MS. Exploring the relationship between neck flexion and neck problems in occupational populations: a systematic review of the literature. ERGONOMICS 2022; 65:587-603. [PMID: 34477048 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2021.1976847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the relationship between occupational neck flexion angles and neck problems. The synthesised findings were used to answer three research questions: (1) Is there a positive/negative relationship between neck flexion and neck problems? (2) What is the appropriate angular threshold for neck flexion as a risk factor for neck problems? (3) What are the gaps in our current knowledge? A review of 21 papers revealed (1) a consistent positive correlation between neck flexion and neck problems, and (2) a neck flexion angle of 20° as the most evidence-based (not necessarily the best) cut-off angle separating high- and low-risk neck flexion postures. Future research should focus on the (1) continuous collection of three-dimensional neck postures through longitudinal studies to quantify cumulative exposures of neck postures, and (2) development of standard descriptions of 'neck problems' and 'neck flexion' to facilitate the development of a dose-response relationship. Practitioner summary: Practitioners depend on thresholds for evaluating neck postural exposure using work assessment tools; however, the scientific basis for this is unclear. This systematic review investigated the angular threshold for neck flexion and found 20° of neck flexion with the greatest evidence-based support as the threshold for high-risk neck postural exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Norasi
- Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Emmanuel Tetteh
- Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Pramiti Sarker
- Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Gary A Mirka
- Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - M Susan Hallbeck
- Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Riddervold B, Andersen JH, Dalbøge A. Occupational lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling loads and risk of surgery for subacromial impingement syndrome: a register-based cohort study. Occup Environ Med 2022; 79:oemed-2021-108166. [PMID: 35318274 PMCID: PMC9453562 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-108166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim was to examine exposure-response relations between surgery for subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) and intensities of lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling loads during a 10-year time window. METHODS We conducted a register-based cohort study (2003-2008), comprising persons born in Denmark (1933-1977) with ≥5 years of work experience (N=2 374 403). Information on surgery for SIS was retrieved from the Danish National Patient Register (N=14 188). Occupational mechanical exposures comprising lifting/carrying loads ≥10 kg and pushing/pulling loads ≥50 kg were assessed by combining individual register-based job codes with our expert-based Shoulder job exposure matrix. We created three intensity-specific exposure duration variables by dividing the intensity for lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling loads into three categories (low, medium and high), and summed up number of years in each exposure category for a 10-year time window. The associations were analysed using logistic regression technique equivalent to discrete survival analysis. RESULTS The adjusted OR (ORadj) increased with both exposure duration and intensity of lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling. For lifting/carrying, the ORadj reached a maximum of 1.78 (95% CI 1.66 to 1.89), 2.52 (95% CI 2.32 to 2.74) and 2.96 (95% CI 2.53 to 3.47) after 10 years of exposures for the three exposure intensities. For pushing/pulling, maximum ORadj was 1.44 (95% CI 1.31 to 1.58), 1.68 (95% CI 1.58 to 1.79) and 1.72 (95% CI 1.50 to 2.00), respectively. CONCLUSION We found exposure-response relations for lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling across the 10-year time window. The risk was especially pronounced for lifting/carrying compared with pushing/pulling. We did not find indications of safe exposure intensities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bjørn Riddervold
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Johan Hviid Andersen
- Danish Ramazzini Centre, Department of Occupational Medicine, Regional Hospital West Jutland - University Research Clinic, Herning, Denmark
| | - Annett Dalbøge
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Januario LB, Cid MM, Zanca GG, Mattiello SM, Oliveira AB. Serratus anterior sEMG – sensor placement and test position for normalization purposes during maximal and submaximal exertions. Med Eng Phys 2022; 101:103765. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2022.103765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
31
|
Petersen JA, Brauer C, Thygesen LC, Flachs EM, Lund CB, Thomsen JF. Prospective, population-based study of occupational movements and postures of the neck as risk factors for cervical disc herniation. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e053999. [PMID: 35228284 PMCID: PMC8886406 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We studied the associations between objectively measured occupational neck exposures in a job exposure matrix (JEM) and cervical disc herniation (CDH). DESIGN A cohort study of Danish workers who ever held at least one of 29 jobs (eg, dentists, hairdressers, childcare, carpenters) from 1981 to 2016 was formed. Representative whole work-day inclinometric measurements from previous studies using triaxial accelerometers measuring neck angular velocity and posture of the neck were used as exposure in a JEM. Job titles were retrieved from the Danish Occupational Cohort with eXposure data database. The risk of CDH by quintiles of cumulated exposure was assessed by incidence rate ratios (IRR), adjusted for age, sex, calendar-year, previous lumbar disc herniation and educational level, using Poisson regression models. SETTING Nationwide Danish registers. PARTICIPANTS 852 625 Danish workers within 29 different job-titles. OUTCOME MEASURES First diagnosis of CDH was retrieved from the Danish National Patient Register. RESULTS We found 14 000 cases of CDH during 20.2 million person-years of follow-up. Increasing levels of neck angular velocity showed a decreasing risk with IRR 0.90 (95% CI 0.86 to 0.95) when the highest level of cumulative exposure (dynamic work) was compared with the lowest (static work). Similar results were found for extension and flexion of the neck, though not statistically significant for extension. Multiple sensitivity analyses did not change the results. CONCLUSION In this large register-based study based on a JEM, we found no evidence of an increased risk of CDH with increasing cumulated angular velocity, flexion or extension of the neck. Factors other than occupational dynamic neck movements and bent neck position seem to be important in the development of CDH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Charlotte Brauer
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - Lau Caspar Thygesen
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Christina Bach Lund
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - Jane Frølund Thomsen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Evaluation of a New Simplified Inertial Sensor Method against Electrogoniometer for Measuring Wrist Motion in Occupational Studies. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22041690. [PMID: 35214592 PMCID: PMC8874503 DOI: 10.3390/s22041690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Wrist velocity is an important risk factor for work-related musculoskeletal disorders in the elbow/hand, which is also difficult to assess by observation or self-reports. This study aimed to evaluate a new convenient and low-cost inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based method using gyroscope signals against an electrogoniometer for measuring wrist flexion velocity. Twelve participants performed standard wrist movements and simulated work tasks while equipped with both systems. Two computational algorithms for the IMU-based system, i.e., IMUnorm and IMUflex, were used. For wrist flexion/extension, the mean absolute errors (MAEs) of median wrist flexion velocity compared to the goniometer were <10.1°/s for IMUnorm and <4.1°/s for IMUflex. During wrist deviation and pronation/supination, all methods showed errors, where the IMUnorm method had the largest overestimations. For simulated work tasks, the IMUflex method had small bias and better accuracy than the IMUnorm method compared to the goniometer, with the MAEs of median wrist flexion velocity <5.8°/s. The results suggest that the IMU-based method can be considered as a convenient method to assess wrist motion for occupational studies or ergonomic evaluations for the design of workstations and tools by both researchers and practitioners, and the IMUflex method is preferred. Future studies need to examine algorithms to further improve the accuracy of the IMU-based method in tasks of larger variations, as well as easy calibration procedures.
Collapse
|
33
|
Wang X, Lavender SA, Sommerich CM, Rayo MF. The effects of using a footrest during computer tasks varying in complexity and temporal demands: A postural and electromyographic analysis. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 98:103550. [PMID: 34450458 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Prior research has found that office workers may not be fully utilizing their chair's back support. This may be due in part to cognitive demands or other psychological stressors. Not using the back support may increase the muscle tension and contribute to muscle fatigue and discomfort. Historically, footrests have been advocated to address anthropometric disparities in office settings. In this laboratory study, it was hypothesized that a footrest may facilitate the use of the backrest and mediate the biomechanical demands on the back and neck muscles, especially when cognitive workload is elevated. Twenty participants performed computer tasks, which varied in their complexity levels, both with and without an angled footrest. Using a footrest increased workers' use of a chair's backrest, increased pelvic rotation towards the backrest, and had a corresponding change in spine flexion. However, no changes were found in the sampled electromyographic activities due to the footrest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueke Wang
- Integrated Systems Engineering The Ohio State University, USA.
| | - Steven A Lavender
- Integrated Systems Engineering The Ohio State University, USA; Orthopaedics The Ohio State University, USA
| | | | - Michael F Rayo
- Integrated Systems Engineering The Ohio State University, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Assunção A, Moniz-Pereira V, Fujão C, Bernardes S, Veloso AP, Carnide F. Predictive Factors of Short-Term Related Musculoskeletal Pain in the Automotive Industry. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413062. [PMID: 34948670 PMCID: PMC8700848 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413062] [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: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
To determine the short-term associations between biomechanical risk factors and musculoskeletal symptoms in the upper limbs and low back in an automotive company, a longitudinal study with a follow-up of 4 days was conducted in a sample of 228 workers of the assembly and paint areas. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations, calculating the crude and adjusted model for age, sex, seniority, and intensity of pain at baseline. The interactions found were the same for both models. Workers were divided in low-risk and high-risk group for posture, force, exposure, percentage of cycle time with the arm at/above shoulder level, and with the trunk flexed or/and strongly flexed. The predictive factors showed by time × group effect were found between pain intensity on the left shoulder for posture (β = 0.221, p < 0.001), percentage of time with the trunk flexed (β = 0.136, p = 0.030) and overall exposure (β = 0.140, p = 0.013). A time × group interactions were observed, namely between neck pain and posture (β = 0.218, p = 0.005) and right wrist and force (β = 0.107, p = 0.044). Workers in the high-risk group were more prone to report unfavorable effects on their self-reported musculoskeletal pain, across a workweek when exposed to specific risk factor, being posture important to neck, right wrist and left shoulder pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Assunção
- Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory, CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; (V.M.-P.); (S.B.); (A.P.V.); (F.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Vera Moniz-Pereira
- Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory, CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; (V.M.-P.); (S.B.); (A.P.V.); (F.C.)
| | - Carlos Fujão
- Volkswagen Autoeuropa—Industrial Engineering & Lean Management, Quinta da Marquesa, 2954-024 Palmela, Portugal;
| | - Sarah Bernardes
- Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory, CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; (V.M.-P.); (S.B.); (A.P.V.); (F.C.)
| | - António P. Veloso
- Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory, CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; (V.M.-P.); (S.B.); (A.P.V.); (F.C.)
| | - Filomena Carnide
- Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory, CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1499-002 Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; (V.M.-P.); (S.B.); (A.P.V.); (F.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mixter S, Mathiassen SE, Bjärntoft S, Lindfors P, Lyskov E, Hallman DM. Fatigue, Stress, and Performance during Alternating Physical and Cognitive Tasks-Effects of the Temporal Pattern of Alternations. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:1107-1122. [PMID: 34228119 PMCID: PMC8577232 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In occupational life, performing cognitive work tasks in between fatiguing physical work tasks may allow recovery and reduce stress without losing productive working time. The temporal pattern of such alternations is likely a determinant of the recovery effect, influencing both stress and fatigue; the difficulty of the cognitive task (CT) would also be a likely determinant. The aim of this study was to determine to what extent the temporal pattern of alternations between a repetitive physical task and a CT of different difficulties influenced perceived fatigability, performance fatigability, stress-related outcomes, and performance. Fifteen women performed four work sessions comprising 110 min of repeated bouts of a repetitive physical task (pipetting), alternating with a CT (n-back). Sessions differed in bout cycle time (short: 7 + 3 min versus long: 14 + 6 min) and CT difficulty (CTdiff; easy versus difficult). Fatigue was assessed from recordings of maximal voluntary contraction force in shoulder elevations and handgrip pre- and post-work, electromyography (EMG) from the right trapezius and right forearm extensors during work, and repeated self-ratings of fatigue and pain throughout the session. Stress was assessed using electrocardiography (heart rate variability), salivary alpha-amylase, and self-reports. Perceived fatigue increased significantly over time for all protocols and more in long-cycle than short-cycle conditions. EMG activity did not increase markedly over time in any condition. Neither objective nor subjective indicators suggested that stress increased over time, regardless of the temporal pattern. Pipetting performance remained stable in all conditions. Cognitive performance, measured by the proportions of correct positive and false positive answers, differed between CTdiff levels but remained stable over time, with no significant difference between temporal patterns. In summary, temporal patterns of alternating tasks influenced fatigue to some extent but had no obvious influence on stress indicators or performance. Thus, designing job rotation with alternating physical and cognitive work should consider the temporal patterns of alternations to minimize fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Mixter
- Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden
| | - Svend Erik Mathiassen
- Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden
| | - Sofie Bjärntoft
- Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden
| | - Petra Lindfors
- Division of Work and Organizational Psychology, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Frescati Hagväg 8-14, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eugene Lyskov
- Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden
| | - David M Hallman
- Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Barbieri DF, Brusaca LA, Mathiassen SE, Srinivasan D, Oliveira AB. Effects on variation in shoulder, forearm and low back muscle activity from combining seated computer work with other productive office tasks: results from a simulation study. ERGONOMICS 2021; 65:1-13. [PMID: 34663181 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2021.1994657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The effect on muscle activity variation of combining different office tasks is not known. We recorded electromyography from the upper trapezius (UT), wrist extensor (WE) and lumbar erector spinae (LES) in 24 office workers during five productive tasks, and breaks. Minute-to-minute variance was then estimated, by simulations, in a reference 'job' consisting of 85% sitting computer work and 15% breaks, and in 'jobs' where sitting computer work was replaced by different proportions of the other office tasks and breaks. Replacing sitting computer work with sitting non-computer work increased estimated variance by, in median, 23% (UT), 19% (WE) and 0% (LES). Replacing it with other tasks, in particular, standing computer and non-computer work, was less effective in increasing variance. Thus, some combinations of office tasks have a slight potential to increase muscle activity variation in the shoulder and lower arm, but not the lumbar back, while others will be ineffective. Practitioner summary: The need for exposure variation is often emphasised in office ergonomics. We estimated the effect on muscle activity in the shoulder, forearm and lumbar back of combining sitting computer work with other available tasks and breaks, finding that introduction of sitting non-computer tasks and non-desk work slightly increased variation; other tasks were essentially non-effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dechristian França Barbieri
- Laboratory of Clinical and Occupational Kinesiology, Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Luiz Augusto Brusaca
- Laboratory of Clinical and Occupational Kinesiology, Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Svend Erik Mathiassen
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Divya Srinivasan
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Ana Beatriz Oliveira
- Laboratory of Clinical and Occupational Kinesiology, Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hasanbarani F, Yang C, Bailey CA, Slopecki M, Côté JN. Sex-specific effects of a repetitive fatiguing task on stability: Analysis with motor equivalence model. J Biomech 2021; 129:110769. [PMID: 34607280 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Although studies showed that several internal factors affect task-specific stability, the sex-specific effects of fatigue on whole-limb stability during a semi-cycle repetitive pointing task remain unidentified. Synergy and Motor Equivalence concepts in the UCM framework have been developed to explain task-specific stability. The motor equivalence model quantifies the amount of deviation in the space of elemental variables that occurs in two directions; one that preserves the performance variable (good variance), and the other that affects it (bad variance). Synergy index (the difference between good and bad variance divided by the total variance > 0) represent stability in performing a task. Healthy adults (n = 26, 13F; age: 35.3 ± 10.6 yrs.) performed an RPT by moving their dominant arm between a proximal target and a distal target in a standing position until near fatigue (Borg CR10 rating 8/10). Tridimensional kinematics of trunk, upper arm, forearm, and hand segments were captured by high-resolution cameras every minute, and joint angles were extracted according to the ZX'Y″ Euler sequence. Results showed the synergy > 0 for both women and men, reflecting synergies stabilizing the endpoint coordinate in both Non-Fatigue and Fatigue conditions. Statistics (ANOVA) showed a significant Condition * Sex effect (p = 0.01), with higher good (by 0.19 ± 0.1 rad) and bad variances (by 0.15 ± 0.09 rad) in women compared to men after fatigue. Higher good and bad variability, with no change in women's performance could represent a less stable strategy, leading to the development of risk factors for neck-shoulder disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Hasanbarani
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory, Michael Feil and Ted Oberfeld/CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada.
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory, Michael Feil and Ted Oberfeld/CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada
| | - Christopher A Bailey
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory, Michael Feil and Ted Oberfeld/CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada
| | - Matthew Slopecki
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory, Michael Feil and Ted Oberfeld/CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada
| | - Julie N Côté
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada; Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory, Michael Feil and Ted Oberfeld/CRIR Research Centre, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Aavang Petersen J, Brauer C, Thygesen LC, Flachs EM, Bach Lund C, Froelund Thomsen J. Risk of pain in the neck and shoulders and job change among hairdressers: a combined questionnaire and register-based Danish prospective cohort study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 95:709-719. [PMID: 34409487 PMCID: PMC8938357 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-021-01753-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate whether intensity of work as a hairdresser was associated with treatments for pain, and if musculoskeletal pain was associated with leaving the hairdressing trade. Methods We formed two cohorts of hairdressers covered in the PensionDanmark Health Scheme (PDHS). Cohort 1 consisted of 1304 active hairdressers in 2009. Self-reported weekly haircuts were used as work intensity measure and treatments for pain in the neck and shoulders in PDHS were used as outcome. We used a Cox regression model with robust sandwich estimates adjusted for age, sex, employment status and prior treatment < 1 year before July 2009. Cohort 2 consisted of all hairdressers ever covered in the PDHS from 2006 to 2016 (n = 11,162). Exposure were treatments in PDHS within the last year. Outcome was leaving the trade within the following year. Adjustments were made for sex, calendar-year and age in Cox regression models. Results The adjusted hazard ratio of treatments in PDHS compared to the lowest work intensity was 0.95 (95% CI 0.58–1.55) and 0.74 (0.43–1.29) for medium and highest intensity, respectively. The risk of leaving the trade was lower, HR 0.80 (0.72–0.90) among hairdressers with treatments in PDHS within the last year, mainly driven by hairdressers aged < 56 years. Conclusion We found no association between intensity of work as a hairdresser, measured as self-reported weekly haircuts, and treatments for pain in PDHS. Furthermore, we found a protective effect of treatments in the PDHS within the last year on risk of leaving the trade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Aavang Petersen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Charlotte Brauer
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lau Caspar Thygesen
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Esben Meulengracht Flachs
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Bach Lund
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jane Froelund Thomsen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Arvidsson I, Dahlqvist C, Enquist H, Nordander C. Action Levels for the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Neck and Upper Extremities: A Proposal. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:741-747. [PMID: 33831146 PMCID: PMC8341001 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
There are several well-known risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Despite this knowledge, too many people still work in harmful conditions. The absence of occupational exposure limits (OELs) for physical workload impedes both supervision and preventive work. To prevent myalgia, tendon disorders, and nerve entrapments in the upper musculoskeletal system, we propose action levels concerning work postures, movement velocities and muscular loads recorded by wearable equipment. As an example, we propose that wrist velocity should not exceed 20°/s as a median over a working day. This has the potential to reduce the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in highly exposed male occupational groups by 93%. By reducing upper arm velocity in highly exposed female groups to the suggested action level 60°/s, the prevalence of pronounced neck/shoulder myalgia with clinical findings (tension neck syndrome) could be reduced by 22%. Furthermore, we propose several other action levels for the physical workload. Our ambition is to start a discussion concerning limits for physical workload, with the long-term goal that OELs shall be introduced in legislation. Obviously, the specific values of the proposed action levels can, and should, be discussed. We hope that quantitative measurements, combined with action levels, will become an integral part of systematic occupational health efforts, enabling reduction and prevention of work-related MSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inger Arvidsson
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Medicon Village, SE-223 81, Lund, Sweden
| | - Camilla Dahlqvist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Medicon Village, SE-223 81, Lund, Sweden
| | - Henrik Enquist
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Medicon Village, SE-223 81, Lund, Sweden
| | - Catarina Nordander
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Medicon Village, SE-223 81, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Prince SA, Rasmussen CL, Biswas A, Holtermann A, Aulakh T, Merucci K, Coenen P. The effect of leisure time physical activity and sedentary behaviour on the health of workers with different occupational physical activity demands: a systematic review. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2021; 18:100. [PMID: 34284795 PMCID: PMC8290554 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-021-01166-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it is generally accepted that physical activity reduces the risk for chronic non-communicable disease and mortality, accumulating evidence suggests that occupational physical activity (OPA) may not confer the same health benefits as leisure time physical activity (LTPA). It is also unclear if workers in high OPA jobs benefit from LTPA the same way as those in sedentary jobs. Our objective was to determine whether LTPA and leisure time sedentary behaviour (LTSB) confer the same health effects across occupations with different levels of OPA. METHODS Searches were run in Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, ProQuest Public Health and Scopus from inception to June 9, 2020. Prospective or experimental studies which examined the effects of LTPA or LTSB on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal pain, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arrhythmias and depression among adult workers grouped by OPA (low OPA/sitters, standers, moderate OPA/intermittent movers, high OPA/heavy labourers) were eligible. Results were synthesized using narrative syntheses and harvest plots, and certainty of evidence assessed with GRADE. RESULTS The review includes 38 papers. Across all outcomes, except cardiovascular mortality, metabolic syndrome and atrial fibrillation, greater LTPA was consistently protective among low OPA, but conferred less protection among moderate and high OPA. For cardiovascular mortality and metabolic syndrome, higher levels of LTPA were generally associated with similar risk reductions among all OPA groups. Few studies examined effects in standers and none examined effects of LTSB across OPA groups. CONCLUSIONS Evidence suggests that LTPA is beneficial for all workers, but with larger risk reductions among those with low compared to high OPA jobs. This suggests that, in our attempts to improve the health of workers through LTPA, tailored interventions for different occupational groups may be required. More high-quality studies are needed to establish recommended levels of LTPA/LTSB for different OPA groups. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION PROSPERO # CRD42020191708 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Prince
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, 785 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0K9, Canada.
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
| | | | - Aviroop Biswas
- Institute for Work & Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tarnbir Aulakh
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | | | - Pieter Coenen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Motabar H, Nimbarte AD. Sex Differences in Rotator Cuff Muscles' Response to Various Work-Related Factors. IISE Trans Occup Ergon Hum Factors 2021; 9:1-12. [PMID: 34011247 DOI: 10.1080/24725838.2021.1931562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Occupational ApplicationsDespite the frequency and cost of rotator cuff injuries among male and female workers, very little is known about the strength, endurance, and perceived exertion and electromyographic response of rotator cuff muscles to different exertion levels. In this study, sex differences were studied using muscle-specific maximal and submaximal exertions of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and teres minor muscles. Females showed lower strength and endurance, but higher muscle activity and perceived exertion compared to males. The baseline data presented in this paper can assist ergonomic practitioners in determining the worker capacity to ensure that physically-demanding shoulder exertions can be performed without incurring injurious stress. Such data is also essential to establish population norms for the better design of workplace tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Motabar
- Industrial and Management Systems Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Ashish D Nimbarte
- Industrial and Management Systems Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Changes in muscle activation, oxygenation, and morphology following a fatiguing repetitive forward reaching task in young adult males and females. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2021; 59:102564. [PMID: 34102382 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2021.102564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We sought to evaluate sex-specific 1) muscle activation patterns, hemodynamics, and swelling responses to short-cycle repetitive fatigue; 2) relationships between muscular responses and perceived fatigability. Asymptomatic participants (N = 26, 13 females) completed a repetitive pointing task until 8/10 on the Borg CR10 scale. Upper trapezius (UT), supraspinatus (SUPRA), and biceps brachii (BIC) muscle activation, activation variability (CV), median power frequency (MdPF) and thickness, and UT oxygenation were recorded. Males had higher BIC CV, UT and SUPRA MdPF, and UT and BIC thickness. Longer time to fatigue-terminal was correlated to greater SUPRA activation increase (ρ = 0.624) and BIC MdPF decrease (ρ = -0.674) in males, while in females it was correlated to greater (ρ = -0.657) and lower (ρ = 0.683) decrease of SUPRA and BIC CV, respectively. Male's greater increase in SUPRA thickness correlated to greater increase in UT thickness and tissue oxygenation index, and to lower increase of UT deoxyhemoglobin. Females' greater decrease of SUPRA MdPF correlated to greater decrease of UT MdPF, while greater UT activation increase was related to lower UT thickness increase. Results suggest that despite comparable time to fatigue-terminal, males have greater force-generating capacity and neuromuscular reliance on recruitment and excitation rates, while females have greater reliance on activation variability. Further, there are relationships between hemodynamic and swelling patterns in males, while there are relationships between activation and swelling patterns in females. Although there were no differences in experimental task-induced changes, there are sex-specific relationships between muscular patterns and perceived fatigability, which may help explain sex-specific mechanisms of musculoskeletal disorders.
Collapse
|
44
|
Maciukiewicz JM, Whittaker RL, Hogervorst KB, Dickerson CR. Wrapping technique and wrapping height interact to modify physical exposures during manual pallet wrapping. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 93:103378. [PMID: 33601108 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Occupational tasks often involve musculoskeletal demands that contribute to injury risk. In pallet wrapping tasks, 36% of workplace claims involve over exertion and repetitive exposures (Workplace Safety and Prevention Services, 2012). Tools that modify how the wrap is handled by workers have been introduced to help mitigate over exertion and extreme postures wherever possible. A novel device has been introduced that places the required tension on the roll to mitigate these factors. However, the effect of reducing the necessary tension on the roll during pallet wrapping in limiting muscular demand and extreme postures is unknown. Fourteen healthy university aged participants completed 12 wrapping trials on a simulated pallet (2 repetitions of 2 wrapping techniques (device, hand wrapping) at 3 wrapping heights (low, medium, high)). Surface electromyography (sEMG) was measured on 6 shoulder and 2 low back muscles; anterior and middle deltoids, biceps brachii, infraspinatus, supraspinatus, upper trapezius, and erector spinae (T8 & L3). Kinematic data were collected for the torso and upper extremity and global to torso, and torso to upper arm angles were computed. Repeated measures ANOVAs were performed for the following experimental factors: 1) technique used (device or hand wrapping) and 2) the wrapping height (low, medium, high) for each muscle (8), angle (5), rating of perceived discomfort (1) and rating of perceived exertion (1). Pallet wrapping without a device required greater trunk flexion at lower heights and thoracohumeral elevation at higher wrapping heights as compared to using the device. Muscular activation increased when using the device, specifically at the higher and lower heights. Posture and muscular demands during pallet wrapping tasks are sensitive to both wrapping technique and wrapping height. Ergonomics interventions such as this device may mitigate postural risks associated with manual material handling tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Clark R Dickerson
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Alhusuny A, Cook M, Khalil A, Johnston V. Visual symptoms, Neck/shoulder problems and associated factors among surgeons performing Minimally Invasive Surgeries (MIS): A comprehensive survey. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 94:959-979. [PMID: 33515063 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01642-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) is demanding on the musculoskeletal and visual systems. Prevalence, severity and association of neck/shoulder problems and visual symptoms were examined among MIS surgeons. The associations of workplace and individual factors with these symptoms independently and combined were also examined. METHODS MIS surgeons completed a comprehensive online survey inclusive of 52 questions about individual and workplace physical factors, neck/shoulder problems and visual symptoms. Binary logistic regression models were conducted to determine the associations of the neck/shoulder problems, visual symptoms and combined symptoms with workplace and individual factors. RESULTS 290 surgeons completed the survey. Neck/shoulder problems and visual symptoms were reported by 31.0% and 29.0%, respectively, 15.5% reported both problems. The prevalence and severity of neck/shoulder problems and visual symptoms were significantly associated (p < 0.001). Several workplace and individual factors were associated with these symptoms (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Several factors in the workplace environment (temperature, asymmetrical weight bearing and forward head movement) and individual (being female and wearing vision correction glasses) were significantly associated with neck/shoulder problems and visual symptoms. Evaluation of different strategies to minimise the strain on the neck/shoulder region and the visual system is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ameer Alhusuny
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Level 3, Therapies Annexe Building 84, Brisbane, St Lucia, QLD, 4068, Australia.
| | - Margaret Cook
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Akram Khalil
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Venerina Johnston
- RECOVER Injury Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Knuttinen MG, Zurcher KS, Wallace A, Doe C, Naidu SG, Money SR, Rochon PJ. Ergonomics in IR. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2020; 32:235-241. [PMID: 33358387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ergonomic research in the field of interventional radiology remains limited. Existing literature suggests that operators are at increased risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders related to the use of lead garments and incomplete knowledge of ergonomic principles. Data from existing surgical literature suggest that musculoskeletal disorders may contribute to physician burnout and female operators are at a higher risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. This review article aims to summarize the existing ergonomic challenges faced by interventional radiologists, reiterate existing solutions to these challenges, and highlight the need for further ergonomic research in multiple areas, including burnout and gender.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenneth S Zurcher
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona.
| | - Alex Wallace
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Christopher Doe
- Department of Interventional Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Sailendra G Naidu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Samuel R Money
- Department of Surgery, Ochsner Clinic, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Paul J Rochon
- Department of Interventional Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Can a metric combining arm elevation and trapezius muscle activity predict neck/shoulder pain? A prospective cohort study in construction and healthcare. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 94:647-658. [PMID: 33278002 PMCID: PMC8068682 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01610-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether a composite metric of arm elevation and trapezius activity (i.e. neck/shoulder load) is more strongly associated with the 2-year course of neck and shoulder pain intensity (NSPi) among construction and healthcare workers than each exposure separately. METHODS Dominant arm elevation and upper trapezius muscle activity were estimated in construction and healthcare employees (n = 118) at baseline, using accelerometry and normalized surface electromyography (%MVE), respectively. At baseline and every 6 months for 2 years, workers reported NSPi (score 0-3). Compositions of working time were determined for arm elevation (< 30°; 30-60°; > 60°), trapezius activity (< 0.5%; 0.5-7.0%; > 7.0%MVE), and a composite metric "neck/shoulder load" (restitution, low, medium, and high load). Associations between each of these three compositions and the 2-year course of NSPi were determined using linear mixed models. RESULTS Associations between exposure compositions and the course of NSPi were all weak and in general uncertain. Time spent in 0.5-7.0%MVE showed the largest and most certain association with changes in NSPi during follow-up (β = - 0.13; p = 0.037; corresponding to a -0.01 change in NPSi every 6 months). Among pain-free workers at baseline, medium (β = - 0.23; p = 0.039) and high (β = 0.15; p = 0.031) neck/shoulder load contributed the most to explaining changes in NSPi. CONCLUSION The composite metric of neck/shoulder load did not show a stronger association with the course of NSPi than arm elevation or trapezius activity alone in the entire population, while some indications of a stronger association were found among those who were pain-free at baseline.
Collapse
|
48
|
Guerreiro MM, Serranheira F, Cruz EB, Sousa-Uva A. Self-Reported Variables as Determinants of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Assembly Line Workers. Saf Health Work 2020; 11:491-499. [PMID: 33329916 PMCID: PMC7728709 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assembly lines work is frequently associated to work-related upper limb musculoskeletal disorders. The related disability and absenteeism make it important to implement efficient health surveillance systems. The main objective of this study was to identify self-reported variables that can determine work-related upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms-discomfort/pain-during a 6-month follow-up. METHODS This was a prospective study with a 6-month follow-up period, performed in an assembly line. Upper limb musculoskeletal discomfort/pain was assessed through the presence of self-reported symptoms. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate which self-reported variables were associated to upper limb symptoms after 6 months at the present and to upper limbs symptoms in the past month. RESULTS Of the 200 workers at baseline, 145 replied to the survey after 6 months. For both outcomes, "having upper limb symptoms during the previous 6 months" and "education" were possible predictors. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that having previous upper limb symptoms was related to its maintenance after 6 months, sustaining it as a specific determinant. It can be a hypothesis that this population had mainly workers with chronic symptoms, although our results give only limited support to self-reported indicators as determinants for upper limb symptoms. Nevertheless, the development of an efficient health surveillance system for high demanding jobs should implicate self-reported indicators, but also clinical and work conditions assessment should be accounted on the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marisa M. Guerreiro
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Occupational Health and Environmental Health Department, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Florentino Serranheira
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eduardo B. Cruz
- School of Health Care, Department of Physiotherapy, Setubal, Portugal
| | - António Sousa-Uva
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Guerreiro MM, Serranheira F, Cruz EB, Sousa-Uva A. Working time and upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms: a longitudinal study among assembly line workers. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2020; 59:43-53. [PMID: 33250470 PMCID: PMC7855675 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2020-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study followed assembly line workers during 7 months, comprising a 4-wk season
holidays. The main purposes were to determine the potential effect of working time on the
presence and intensity of upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms, as to verify the effect of
4 wk of job interruption in the upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms presence and
intensity. Data was collected during 6 moments. Generalized estimating equations analyses
were used. For the effect estimates, odds ratio with corresponding 95% confidence
intervals were reported for each outcome/model. The upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms
showed a significant increase (p=0.001), especially after
the 4 wk off. In all data collection points there was a significant positive association
between the upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms and general health status
(p<0.001). Considering symptoms’ intensity,
significant relations were found (p<0.001). Work time had
a negative effect on the work-related upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms over 7 months
(OR 0.909, 95% CI 0.861–0.960, p=0.001). For the intensity
of upper limb symptoms, the effect of time was also statistical significant (OR 0.115, 95%
CI 1.031–1.220, p=0.008). A 4-wk job interruption did not
show an immediately positive effect on upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms presence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Florentino Serranheira
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| | - Eduardo Brazete Cruz
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.,School of Health Care, Setubal Polytechnic Institute, Portugal
| | - António Sousa-Uva
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Stress-Related Responses to Alternations between Repetitive Physical Work and Cognitive Tasks of Different Difficulties. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228509. [PMID: 33212862 PMCID: PMC7698406 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228509] [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: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Alternating between physical and cognitive tasks has been proposed as an alternative in job rotation, allowing workers to recover from the physical work while still being productive. However, effects of such alternations on stress have not been investigated. This controlled experiment aimed at determining the extent to which stress-related responses develop during alternating physical and cognitive work, and to determine the extent to which cognitive task (CT) difficulty influences these responses. Fifteen women performed three sessions of 10 consecutive work bouts each including a seven-minute repetitive physical task (pipetting) and a three-minute CT (n-back) at one of three difficulty levels. Stress was assessed in terms of changes in heart rate variability, blood pressure, salivary alpha-amylase, salivary cortisol, perceived stress, and cognitive performance. The work session did not result in any marked stress response, and CT difficulty did not significantly influence stress, apart from alpha-amylase being higher at the easiest CT (F = 5.34, p = 0.02). Thus, according to our results, alternating between repetitive physical tasks and cognitive tasks may be a feasible alternative to classic job rotation between physical tasks only, even if the cognitive task is quite difficult. Future studies should address possible effects of the temporal pattern of alternations, and combine even other occupationally relevant tasks, preferably for extended periods of time.
Collapse
|