Sagittal trunk movements during load carrying activities: a pilot study

• Published in: International journal of industrial ergonomics Vol. 32; no. 3; pp. 181 - 188
• Main Authors: Padula, Rosimeire Simprine, Coury, Helenice Jane Cote Gil
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.09.2003
• Subjects: Electrogoniometer; Load carrying; Musculoskeletal disorders; Trunk movements; Musculoskeletal disorders; Load carrying; Trunk movements; Electrogoniometer
• ISSN: 0169-8141; 1872-8219
• DOI: 10.1016/S0169-8141(03)00062-3

The objective of this study was to describe trunk movements in sedentary subjects, and in workers with and without musculoskeletal symptoms, when carrying loads in simulated tasks. The 38 subjects who participated in this study were divided into 4 groups, consisting of 9 male students, 10 female students, 10 female symptomatic industrial workers and 9 asymptomatic industrial workers. The trunk movements of all subjects were recorded by a biaxial back electrogoniometer when carrying loads between surfaces of different heights. An analysis of variance for repeated measures were performed, which was followed by the Duncan post hoc test for comparison of anthropometrical data between subjects, amplitude of movement, and time spent in each movement per group and per experimental condition. The height of the surfaces to which the loads were carried to or from, significantly influenced the trunk positions during handling ( p<0.01), as if subjects were anticipating the target position whilst handling. Also, more time was spent in flexion ( p<0.01) than in extension. These aspects increase the risks of possible injury in such activities. The carrying of loads is a hazardous activity and still occurs in many industrial jobs. When carrying loads, the trunk tends to remain in flexion. The surfaces to or from which the loads are handled, significantly influenced the trunk position. These factors may represent extra risk and should be managed appropriately.