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Kazemi Z, Arjmand N, Mazloumi A, Karimi Z, Keihani A, Ghasemi MS. Effect of muscular fatigue on the cumulative lumbar damage during repetitive lifting task: a comparative study of damage calculation methods. ERGONOMICS 2024; 67:566-581. [PMID: 37418312 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2234678] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Several methods have been put forward to quantify cumulative loads; however, limited evidence exists as to the subsequent damages and the role of muscular fatigue. The present study assessed whether muscular fatigue could affect cumulative damage imposed on the L5-S1 joint. Trunk muscle electromyographic (EMG) activities and kinematics/kinetics of 18 healthy male individuals were evaluated during a simulated repetitive lifting task. A traditional EMG-assisted model of the lumbar spine was modified to account for the effect of erector spinae fatigue. L5-S1 compressive loads for each lifting cycle were estimated based on varying (i.e. actual), fatigue-modified, and constant Gain factors. The corresponding damages were integrated to calculate the cumulative damage. Moreover, the damage calculated for one lifting cycle was multiplied by the lifting frequency, as the traditional approach. Compressive loads and the damages obtained through the fatigue-modified model were predicted in close agreement with the actual values. Similarly, the difference between actual damages and those driven by the traditional approach was not statistically significant (p = 0.219). However, damages based on a constant Gain factor were significantly greater than those based on the actual (p = 0.012), fatigue-modified (p = 0.017), and traditional (p = 0.007) approaches.Practitioner summary: In this study, we managed to include the effect of muscular fatigue on cumulative lumbar damage calculations. Including the effect of muscular fatigue leads to an accurate estimation of cumulative damages while eliminating computational complexity. However, using the traditional approach also appears to provide acceptable estimates for ergonomic assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Kazemi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Navid Arjmand
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Adel Mazloumi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zanyar Karimi
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Keihani
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Estrázulas JA, Estrázulas JA, Gheller RG, Gadotti IC, Moro ARP, Vieira ER. Usability and effects on gait of an optimized schoolchildren backpack. Work 2022; 74:1419-1427. [PMID: 36530114 DOI: 10.3233/wor-210261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Backpacks used by children is a global concern, because may cause musculoskeletal discomforts and pain. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to test the usability and effects on gait kinematics wearing the Trunkpack versus a traditional backpack and no backpack. METHODS: Twenty-four children (9 to 11 years old) from a public school participated in this study. The usability was evaluated after a five-week testing period using a questionnaire. Gait kinematics was evaluated (Vicon) when the children were wearing a standard backpack, an optimized backpack (Trunkpack), and no backpack. Both backpacks were loaded with 10% of body weight. RESULTS: Was observed more trunk, hip and knee flexion when the children carried a standard backpack in comparison using the Trunkpack and not carrying a backpack (p < 0.01). The Trunkpack and no backpack were similar. The Trunkpack was well accepted by the schoolchildren (81% positive responses); 79% liked the head opening, 88% liked the waist straps, and 83% liked the facility to put and take objects in and out of the Trunkpack. CONCLUSION: Trunkpack requires less postural adjustments during gait than a standard backpack. Gait kinematics with the Trunkpack was comparable to the gait without carrying a backpack.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rodrigo Ghedini Gheller
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Center of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Trindade Campus, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | | | - Antônio Renato Pereira Moro
- Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Trindade Campus, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Edgar Ramos Vieira
- Department of Physical Therapy, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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Kazemi Z, Mazloumi A, Arjmand N, Keihani A, Karimi Z, Ghasemi MS, Kordi R. A Comprehensive Evaluation of Spine Kinematics, Kinetics, and Trunk Muscle Activities During Fatigue-Induced Repetitive Lifting. HUMAN FACTORS 2022; 64:997-1012. [PMID: 33497290 DOI: 10.1177/0018720820983621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spine kinematics, kinetics, and trunk muscle activities were evaluated during different stages of a fatigue-induced symmetric lifting task over time. BACKGROUND Due to neuromuscular adaptations, postural behaviors of workers during lifting tasks are affected by fatigue. Comprehensive aspects of these adaptations remain to be investigated. METHOD Eighteen volunteers repeatedly lifted a box until perceived exhaustion. Body center of mass (CoM), trunk and box kinematics, and feet center of pressure (CoP) were estimated by a motion capture system and force-plate. Electromyographic (EMG) signals of trunk/abdominal muscles were assessed using linear and nonlinear approaches. The L5-S1 compressive force (Fc) was predicted via a biomechanical model. A two-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was performed to examine the effects of five blocks of lifting cycle (C1 to C5) and lifting trial (T1 to T5), as independent variables, on kinematic, kinetic, and EMG-related measures. RESULTS Significant effects of lifting trial blocks were found for CoM and CoP shift in the anterior-posterior direction (respectively p < .001 and p = .014), trunk angle (p = .004), vertical box displacement (p < .001), and Fc (p = .005). EMG parameters indicated muscular fatigue with the extent of changes being muscle-specific. CONCLUSION Results emphasized variations in most kinematics/kinetics, and EMG-based indices, which further provided insight into the lifting behavior adaptations under dynamic fatiguing conditions. APPLICATION Movement and muscle-related variables, to a large extent, determine the magnitude of spinal loading, which is associated with low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ramin Kordi
- 48439 Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Impact of Backpacks on Ergonomics: Biomechanical and Physiological Effects: A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116737. [PMID: 35682317 PMCID: PMC9180465 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: the effects of load carriage packs on human gait biomechanics, physiology and metabolism depend on the weight carried, the design of the pack and its interaction with the user. (2) Methods: An extensive search in the PubMed database was performed to find all the relevant articles using the following keywords: backpack, rucksack, backpack ergonomy and sports backpack; 60 articles were included. (3) Results and significance: Double pack (DP) and T-pack (TP) designs are recommended solutions for school children, compared with backpacks (BP). For soldiers and hikers, a backpack remains the best compromise. A hip belt is recommended for BPs as well as for the back of DPs. Shorter and stiffer shoulder straps combined with a higher and tighter load placement on the back provide the best combination in terms of balance, muscle activation and energy expenditure. It is, therefore, possible to determine guidelines for designing the optimal load carriage system, depending on the application. (4) Conclusions: based on the available evidence, DP and TP are advantageous in terms of posture. DP is better than conventional BPs in terms of balance and muscle activation, but has the disadvantage of limited visibility, thermal sensation and obstructed ventilation. In general, it is desirable not to exceed 40% of body mass (BM).
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Mohamed RR, Abdel-Aziem AA, Mohammed HY, Diab RH. Chronic low back pain changes the latissmus dorsi and gluteus maximus muscles activation pattern and upward scapular rotation: A cross-sectional study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2022; 35:119-127. [PMID: 34151823 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-200253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with chronic low back pain (LBP) have an impaired dynamic spinal stability, which may lead to arm injuries. OBJECTIVES To examine the latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus muscles activation pattern and the upward scapular rotation in patients with chronic LBP. METHODS Sixty-one right-handed males were divided into two groups: chronic LBP group (n= 31) and healthy controls (n= 30). The electromyography (EMG) activities of the right and left latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus were recorded. The upward scapular rotation in different shoulder positions (neutral, 45∘, 90∘, 135∘ abduction and end range) was measured in both groups. RESULTS The LBP group has a bilateral significant increased EMG of latissimus dorsi (p< 0.05) and significantly decreased EMG of gluteus maximus (p< 0.05) compared to the control group, without significant differences between the right and left sides (p> 0.05). There was a significant increase in upward scapular rotation in the LBP group relative to the control group in all shoulder abduction positions on both sides. The left side upward scapular rotation was more significant than the right (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION Chronic LBP increased the latissimus dorsi muscle activities and decreased the gluteus maximus activities. It furthermore increased the upward scapular rotation in different shoulder abduction positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania R Mohamed
- Basic Science Department, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Amr A Abdel-Aziem
- Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hatem Y Mohammed
- Basic Science Department, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reham H Diab
- Basic Science Department, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Physical Therapy, College of Medical Rehabilitation Science, Taibah University, Madina, Saudi Arabia
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The Influence of External Additional Loading on the Muscle Activity and Ground Reaction Forces during Gait. Appl Bionics Biomech 2021; 2021:5532012. [PMID: 34367325 PMCID: PMC8342170 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5532012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Asymmetrical external loading acting on the musculoskeletal system is generally considered unhealthy. Despite this knowledge, carrying loads in an asymmetrical manner like carrying on one shoulder, with one hand, or on the strap across the torso is a common practice. This study is aimed at presenting the effects of the mentioned load carrying methods on muscle activity assessed by using thermal field and ground reaction forces. Infrared thermography and pedobarographic force platform (ground reaction force/pressure measurement) were used in this study. Experimental results point out an increased load-dependent asymmetry of temperature distribution on the chosen areas of torso and the influence of external loading on ground reaction forces. Results point out that wearing an asymmetrical load should be avoided and are showing which type of carrying the external load is potentially less and the most harmful.
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Development and Experimental Verification of an Ergonomic Backpack. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:1437126. [PMID: 32509847 PMCID: PMC7245669 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1437126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Carrying a heavy school backpack has extensively been reported as a prime cause of children's body strain. It is suggested that the load should not exceed 10 percent of the child's body weight; however, ensuring this requires continuous monitoring. The study explores how ergonomically designed school backpack based on the user anthropometric data (n = 280) and ergonomic parameters help reduce force concentration on shoulders and back. It provides a validation process of the developed prototype by experimental verification. The developed design was assessed in a comparison experiment with a commercially available local school backpack. An experimental study was used which recruited thirty healthy college students (aged 19 to 23 years). Two independent variables evaluated were school backpack type (developed backpack versus commercial one) and load levels as a percentage of body weight. Three load levels were employed 10%, 15%, and 20%. These variables were measured on the responses: bag comfort scale and the percent of maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC) of six muscles (right and left of erector spine, right and left of external abdominal oblique muscle, and right and left of trapezius). The developed backpack provided astonishing performance at levels of 15% and 20% of body weight in terms of subjective measure and electromyography (EMG) responses. It also showed that increasing the carried weight more than 10% result in reducing activity on the erector spinal muscles, while it increases on abdominal oblique muscles. The developed backpack design confirmed the efficiency of its bases by distributing the carried weight among the trunk through side pockets, attached to the body through two upper and lower straps. It helped the body to distribute the carried weight and avoid concentrating pressure on specific areas.
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Abaraogu UO, Duru DO, Imaji B, Ezenwankwo EF, Fawole H. Musculoskeletal problems and backpack carriage among students in Nigeria. Work 2019; 65:175-180. [PMID: 31868725 DOI: 10.3233/wor-193071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health implication of backpack carriage among school-aged children is a topic of growing research and public health interest. Low weighing backpacks may decrease the risk of musculoskeletal discomforts (MSDs). OBJECTIVE To investigate MSDs and their association with backpack carriage practices among secondary school students in eastern Nigeria. METHOD Across-sectional study of 404 (243 females and 161 males) secondary school students aged thirteen to seventeen who were residents of Enugu State, Nigeria was conducted. The Modified Standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was adapted and used to collect information onstudents' demographics, musculoskeletal painand backpack carriage. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were utilized to summarize results. Chi-square test was used to explore the association between MSD prevalence and backpack carriage practices. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20.0. Alpha level was kept at 0.05. RESULTS The average backpack weight carried by the students in this study was 2.49 kg. Shoulder (185, 45.8%), neck (121, 30.0%), upper back (91, 22.6%) and lower back (22, 5.5%) in that order were the body regions most affected by MSDs within the last 12 months. More females than males reported MSDs (60.5% vs 45.2%; x2 = 8.09, p = 0.04). Other students'characteristics and backpack carriage related factors were not associated with MSDs. CONCLUSION There is a high prevalence of MSDs among secondary school students in this study but it is not related to backpack carriage. Further research is required to identify the factors responsible for the MSDs, as well as suitable interventions to reduce its impact in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- U O Abaraogu
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Science and Technology College Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - D O Duru
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Science and Technology College Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria.,Physiotherapy Department, Drumchapel Health Centre, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - B Imaji
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Science and Technology College Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - E F Ezenwankwo
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Science and Technology College Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - H Fawole
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland, United Kingdom.,Physiotherapy Department, University of Benin, Benin, Nigeria
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