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Pearse S, Léger M, Albert WJ, Cardoso M. Active workstations: A literature review on workplace sitting. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2024; 38:406-416. [PMID: 38763586 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2024.01.001] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to further understand current literature on prolonged sitting, sitting posture and active sitting solutions. This paper is divided into three sections: The first section (Part I) is a comprehensive overview of the literature on how a static prolonged seated posture can affect: spinal health, trunk posture, contact pressure/discomfort development and vascular issues. The second section (Part II) reviews and qualitatively compares the four working postures recognized in ANSI/HFES 100-2007: reclined sitting, upright sitting, declined sitting and standing. The final section (Part III) is a summary of research on active chairs that revolves around the two types of movement patterns: 1- sustaining continual movement over a range of postures, occasionally reaching neutral lordosis, and 2- maintaining high frequency and duration of daily light contractile activity in the legs (or lower limbs).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Léger
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, NB, Canada
| | - Wayne J Albert
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, NB, Canada
| | - Michelle Cardoso
- École de kinésiologie et de loisir, Université de Moncton, NB, Canada.
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Garcia MG, Roman MG, Davila A, Martin BJ. Comparison of Physiological Effects Induced by Two Compression Stockings and Regular Socks During Prolonged Standing Work. HUMAN FACTORS 2023; 65:562-574. [PMID: 34078143 PMCID: PMC10210207 DOI: 10.1177/00187208211022126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to evaluate and compare lower-leg muscle fatigue, edema, and discomfort induced by the prolonged standing of security guards wearing regular socks and those wearing 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg compression stockings as intervention. BACKGROUND Compression stockings are sometimes used by individuals standing all day at work. However, quantitative evidence showing their potential benefits for lower-leg health issues in healthy individuals during real working conditions is lacking. METHOD Forty male security employees participated in the study. All were randomly assigned to the control or one of the two intervention groups (I15-20 or I20-30). Lower-leg muscle twitch force, volume, and discomfort ratings were measured before and after their regular 12-hr standing work shift. RESULTS Significant evidence of lower-leg long-lasting muscle fatigue, edema, and discomfort was observed after standing work for guards wearing regular socks. However, no significant changes were found for guards wearing either compression stockings. CONCLUSION In healthy individuals, compression stockings seem to attenuate efficiently the tested outcomes in the lower leg resulting from prolonged standing. APPLICATION Occupational activities requiring prolonged standing may benefit from 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg compression stockings. As similar benefits were observed for both levels of compression, the lower level may be sufficient.
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Kuber PM, Alemi MM, Rashedi E. A Systematic Review on Lower-Limb Industrial Exoskeletons: Evaluation Methods, Evidence, and Future Directions. Ann Biomed Eng 2023:10.1007/s10439-023-03242-w. [PMID: 37248409 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03242-w] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Industrial tasks that involve frequent sitting/standing transitions and squatting activities can benefit from lower-limb industrial exoskeletons; however, their use is not as widespread as their upper-body counterparts. In this review, we examined 23 articles that evaluated the effects of using Wearable Chair (WC) and Squat-assist (SA) exoskeletons. Evaluations mainly included assessment of muscular demands in the thigh, shank, and upper/lower back regions. Both types of devices were found to lessen muscular demands in the lower body by 30-90%. WCs also reduced low-back demands (~ 37%) and plantar pressure (54-80%) but caused discomfort/unsafe feeling in participants. To generalize outcomes, we suggest standardizing approaches used for evaluating the devices. Along with addressing low adoption through design upgrades (e.g., ground and body supports/attachments), we recommend that researchers thoroughly evaluate temporal effects on muscle fatigue, metabolic rate, and stability of wearers. Although lower-limb exoskeletons were found to be beneficial, discrepancies in experimental protocols (posture/task/measures) were discovered. We also suggest simulating more realistic conditions, such as walking/sitting interchangeability for WCs and lifting loads for SA devices. The presented outcomes could help improve the design/evaluation approaches, and implementation of lower limb wearable devices across industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav Madhav Kuber
- Biomechanics and Ergonomics Lab, Industrial and Systems Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, 1 Lomb Memorial Dr, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Alemi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Training Services, MathWorks, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Ehsan Rashedi
- Biomechanics and Ergonomics Lab, Industrial and Systems Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, 1 Lomb Memorial Dr, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA.
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Liu L, Guo F. Workers’ subjective discomfort, muscle fatigue, and kinematics during a manual packaging task. Work 2022; 73:871-879. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-205107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Due to the prevalence and increased demand for manual packaging tasks, the concern for worker health and safety has grown. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the effects of gender and work postures on subjective discomfort, muscle fatigue, and kinematics during a manual packaging task. METHODS: Twenty participants, including 10 males and 10 females, were recruited to perform a 60-minute manual packaging task in sitting and standing postures. RESULTS: Discomfort was evidenced by increased the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) values (sit: from 6 to 14.55; stand: from 6 to 17.15) and muscle fatigue was supported by decreased median power frequency (MPF) values for right brachioradialis (RB) (sit: –23.68% ; stand: –16.20%), right upper trapezius (RUT) (sit: –20.14% ; stand: 11.79%), and right erector spinae (RES) (sit: 8.64% ; stand: 11.21%) muscles. Women were more likely to bend forward in a relaxed upper body position, especially while sitting, which may increase the risk of low back pain and women also reported greater discomfort than men, but not in the hands and back. Compared with sitting, the back showed greater muscle fatigue in standing, while muscle fatigue for the shoulders and hands was the opposite. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that work posture should be considered to prevent fatigue in manual packaging tasks. Given the impact of gender on muscle fatigue, work performed by women and men should both be considered. The results can help to develop action strategies and work posture design to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in the manual packaging industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Fu Guo
- School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang, P.R. China
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The Effect of Standing Mats on Biomechanical Characteristics of Lower Limbs and Perceived Exertion for Healthy Individuals during Prolonged Standing. Appl Bionics Biomech 2022; 2022:8132402. [PMID: 35942253 PMCID: PMC9356849 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8132402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify the effect of standing mats on biomechanical characteristics of lower limbs and perceived exertion for healthy adult individuals during a prolonged standing task. Methods 32 healthy college students were recruited in the randomized and cross-over designed trial according to the effect size and statistical power. After collecting the anthropometric data, each participant was asked to finish 2 sessions of 4-hour prolonged standing tasks on standing mats (MS) and hard ground (GS) in a random order and with a 72-hour interval rest. The plantar pressure distribution, foot morphology, and scores of the BESS (balance error scoring system) would be recorded pre- and posteach task. The Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) would be collected during the whole task. Paired-samples t test was adopted to analyse the before and after difference within group and independent-samples t test was adopted to analyse the difference between groups separately. Results (1) A prolonged standing task on both MS and GS have a negative effect on RPE and balance performance. (2) The negative effect on RPE and balance performance induced by MS is significantly smaller than that induced by GS. (3) Compared to GS, prolonged standing on MS has a lower peak plantar pressure and an implicit decrease in navicular drop and AHI (arch index). Conclusion Standing mat tends to alleviate the fatigue induced by prolonged standing in lower limbs, optimize the distribution of plantar pressure, and maintain the stability.
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Winberg TB, Glinka MN, Gallagher KM, Weaver TB, Laing AC, Callaghan JP. Anti-fatigue mats can reduce low back discomfort in transient pain developers. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 100:103661. [PMID: 34837750 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103661] [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: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Complaints of musculoskeletal pain are common among employees who stand for prolonged periods. This study sought to determine if an anti-fatigue mat (AFM) could uniquely affect low back pain (LBP), low back posture, and foot-floor interface responses in individuals prone to developing LBP (termed pain developers (PDs)) during prolonged standing experiments compared to those who do not develop LBP under the same exposures (termed non pain developers (NPDs)). Sixteen volunteers (8 PDs and 8 NPDs) were recruited based on their pain-development tendencies, which were established in previous standing experiments. They visited the laboratory on two separate days for 60 min of light manual work while standing on either a rigid floor or AFM. All participants were asymptomatic at the beginning of each experimental session. The amount of LBP experienced during the standing exposure, measured via a visual analogue scale, was reduced (p = 0.03) in the PD group when on the AFM (3.6 ± 6 mm) compared to the rigid floor (6.8 ± 7 mm). LBP levels remained low and unchanged (p = 0.5) between the AFM (2.4 ± 5 mm) and rigid floor (1.6 ± 2 mm) conditions for the NPD group. Neither postural nor foot-floor interface measures correlated with this unique reduction of LBP for the PD group when standing on the AFM. The AFM did, however, increase centre of pressure excursion (NPD 55% increase; PD 35% increase) and tended to increase the number of body weight shifts (NPD 116% increase; PD 54% increase) in both the PD and NPD groups. These findings suggest that AFMs may selectively benefit individuals prone to developing standing-induced back pain by facilitating subtle movements at the foot-floor interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Winberg
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michal N Glinka
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kaitlin M Gallagher
- Exercise Science Research Center, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Tyler B Weaver
- LISKE Accident & Injury Experts, Fonthill, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew C Laing
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jack P Callaghan
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
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Won YH, Ko MH, Kim DH. Intermittent pneumatic compression for prolonged standing workers with leg edema and pain. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e26639. [PMID: 34260560 PMCID: PMC8284752 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000026639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Even healthy individuals often encounter leg venous symptoms such as heaviness, pain, and swelling especially after prolonged standing work. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is a widely used simple therapy for preventing deep vein thrombosis and for treating lymphedema and chronic venous insufficiency. However, IPC has not been evaluated for its effect in relieving venous symptoms of healthy people.This was single center, cross-over study to investigate the effect of IPC for 20 healthy volunteers who usually stand on duty and complain of leg pain and swelling. The primary outcome was pain (measured using a visual analogue scale) and secondary outcomes were leg circumference and volume. Three different interventions included natural rest, sequential mode of IPC, and circular mode of IPC. Outcomes were measured before work and immediately after work (T1), after 30 minutes of intervention (T2), and 30 minutes of rest after intervention (T3).Pain and leg circumferences were significantly improved at T2 and T3 compared with those at T1. Sequential and circular IPC led to significantly greater improvement in pain and leg circumferences than just natural rest, but there was no difference in its effect according to the 2 modes of IPC. Leg volume was reduced significantly at T2 and T3 as compared with T1 in all 3 interventions, but effects did not differ among 3 intervention groups.IPC is effective for reducing leg pain and circumferences more than natural rest in healthy adults with prolonged standing work, without causing adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hui Won
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University–Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Hwan Ko
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University–Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Jo H, Lim OB, Ahn YS, Chang SJ, Koh SB. Negative Impacts of Prolonged Standing at Work on Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Physical Fatigue: The Fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey. Yonsei Med J 2021; 62:510-519. [PMID: 34027638 PMCID: PMC8149936 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2021.62.6.510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to investigate variations in the risk of low back pain (LBP), lower extremity muscle pain, and whole body fatigue according to differences in prolonged standing work hours in relation to risk factor exposure and rest frequency. MATERIALS AND METHODS From the fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey data collected in 2017, data for 32970 full-time workers who worked for more than 1 year at their present job were analyzed. We classified the workers according to exposure to fatigue or painful postures, carrying heavy objects, performance of repetitive movements that burden the musculoskeletal system, and how often they took a break. Relationships between time spent in a standing posture at work and risks of LBP, lower extremity muscle pain, and whole body fatigue were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS Of the full-time workers in the survey, 48.7% worked in a standing position for more than half of their total working hours. A higher odds ratio (OR) value for lower extremity muscle pain was observed in female not exposed to carrying heavy objects [OR: 3.551, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.038-4.150] and not exposed to performing repetitive movements (OR: 3.555, 95% CI: 2.761-4.557). CONCLUSION Changes in work methodologies are needed to lower the number of hours spent in a prolonged standing posture at work, including being able to rest when workers want to do so, to reduce pain and fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoon Jo
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Hallym University Graduate School of Health Science, Chuncheon, Korea
- Institute of Genomic Cohort, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - One Bin Lim
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University College of Health Science, Wonju, Korea
| | - Yeon Soon Ahn
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Institute of Genomic Cohort, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Sei Jin Chang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Institute of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Sang Baek Koh
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Institute of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea.
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Osorio-Vasco J, Rodríguez Ruíz Y. Efectos del trabajo de pie en trabajadores del sector sanitario. REVISTA CUIDARTE 2021. [DOI: 10.15649/cuidarte.1790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introducción: En el sector sanitario es común la ejecución de actividades de pie; sin embargo, es un tema poco atendido, a pesar de los efectos negativos que se pueden generar en la salud de los trabajadores. Objetivo: Analizar la variación de dolor musculoesqueléticos en las extremidades inferiores y espalda baja, y la variación de volumen en las piernas presentados en trabajadores sanitarios que realizan sus actividades de pie durante una jornada laboral. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal donde se registró la percepción de dolor musculoesquelético de los segmentos corporales: espalda baja y el lado derecho e izquierdo de: muslo-cadera, rodilla, pierna y tobillo-pie y se midió la circunferencia para calcular su volumen de las piernas con la cinta métrica Gulick II a 21 trabajadores del sector sanitario. Los registros y mediciones se realizaron durante la primera y la última hora de una jornada laboral de 8 horas. Resultados: En todos los segmentos corporales la percepción de dolor musculoesquelético y el volumen en ambas piernas aumentó al final de la jornada laboral respecto al inicio. Los segmentos corporales muslo-cadera izquierda, tobillo-pie derecho y el volumen en ambas piernas aumentaron significativamente. Discusión: Los resultados obtenidos son similares a estudios con diseños experimentales, con la diferencia que nuestro estudio se desarrolló en condiciones reales sin control de variables. Conclusiones: Este estudio muestra cómo actividades del sector sanitario ejecutadas durante tiempos prolongados de pie pueden ocasionar en los trabajadores dolor musculoesqueléticos en las extremidades inferiores y la espalda baja, así como un aumento en el volumen de las piernas.
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Garcia MG, Tapia P, Läubli T, Martin BJ. Physiological and neuromotor changes induced by two different stand-walk-sit work rotations. ERGONOMICS 2020; 63:163-174. [PMID: 31594482 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2019.1677949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The potential of rotating postures to alleviate the effects of prolonged standing and sitting postures has been advocated to attenuate the accumulation of muscle fatigue, considered a precursor to musculoskeletal disorders. We aimed to evaluate the effects of two posture rotations, both including standing, walking, sitting, on physiological and neuromotor measures. Twenty-two participants followed two posture rotations, with different rest-break distributions, for 5.25 h. Lower-leg muscle twitch force, volume, force control and discomfort perception were evaluated during and after work exposure on two non-consecutive days. Significant changes in all measures indicate a detrimental effect in lower-leg long-lasting muscle fatigue, oedema, performance and discomfort after 5 h for both exposures. However, for both exposures recovery was significant 1 h and 15 h post-workday. Differences between the two rotation schedules were not significant. Hence, stand-walk-sit posture rotation promotes recovery of the tested measures and is likely to better prevent muscle fatigue accumulation. Practitioner summary: Lower-leg muscle twitch force, volume, force control, and discomfort were quantified during and after 5 h of stand-walk-sit work rotations with two different rest-break distributions. Measures revealed similar significant effects of work exposures regardless of rotation; which did not persist post-work. This beneficial recovery contrasts with the standing only situations. Abbreviations: MSDs: musculoskeletal disorders; MTF: muscle twitch force; RMSE: root mean square error; MVC: maximum voluntary contraction; M: mean; SE: standard error.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Gabriela Garcia
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Paola Tapia
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Thomas Läubli
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Bernard J Martin
- Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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The Acute Effects of a "Reduced Sitting Preschool Day" on Executive Function and Musculoskeletal Health in Preschoolers: A Randomized Cross-Over Study. Pediatr Exerc Sci 2019; 31:505-513. [PMID: 31387081 DOI: 10.1123/pes.2018-0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the acute effects of a reduced sitting day on executive function (EF) and musculoskeletal health in preschoolers. METHODS A sample of 29 children (54% boys; 4-5 y) participated in a randomized cross-over trial. Each child completed 2 protocols, which simulate a day at childcare in random order for 2.5 hours; a typical preschool day (50% sitting) and a reduced preschool day (25% sitting) where most sitting activities were replaced with standing activities. Sitting, standing, and stepping time were objectively assessed using an activPAL accelerometer. EF was evaluated using tablet-based EF assessments (inhibition, working memory, and task shifting). Musculoskeletal health was assessed using a handheld dynamometer and goniometer. RESULTS Compared with the typical preschool day, the reduced sitting day showed no significant differences for EF scores. Effect sizes for inhibition (d = 0.04), working memory (d = 0.02), and shifting (d = 0.11) were all small. For musculoskeletal health, no significant differences were reported after the reduced preschool day. The effect sizes for the hip extension force, hamstring flexibility, gastrocnemius length, and balancing on 1 leg were all small (d = 0.21, d = 0.25, d = 0.28, and d = 0.28). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that reducing sitting time is unlikely to result in acute changes in EF and musculoskeletal health among preschoolers.
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Anderson J, Nester C, Williams A. Prolonged occupational standing: the impact of time and footwear. FOOTWEAR SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/19424280.2018.1538262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Anderson
- Centre for Health Sciences Research, University of Salford, Salford, UK
| | | | - Anita Williams
- Centre for Health Sciences Research, University of Salford, Salford, UK
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Fedorowich LM, Côté JN. Effects of standing on typing task performance and upper limb discomfort, vascular and muscular indicators. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2018; 72:121-127. [PMID: 29885723 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Standing is a popular alternative to traditionally seated computer work. However, no studies have described how standing impacts both upper body muscular and vascular outcomes during a computer typing task. Twenty healthy adults completed two 90-min simulated work sessions, seated or standing. Upper limb discomfort, electromyography (EMG) from eight upper body muscles, typing performance and neck/shoulder and forearm blood flow were collected. Results showed significantly less upper body discomfort and higher typing speed during standing. Lower Trapezius EMG amplitude was higher during standing, but this postural difference decreased with time (interaction effect), and its variability was 68% higher during standing compared to sitting. There were no effects on blood flow. Results suggest that standing computer work may engage shoulder girdle stabilizers while reducing discomfort and improving performance. Studies are needed to identify how standing affects more complex computer tasks over longer work bouts in symptomatic workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa M Fedorowich
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, Quebec, H2W 1S4, Canada; Feil & Oberfeld/CRIR Research Center, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, 3205 Alton, Goldbloom Place, Laval, Quebec, H7V 1R2, Canada
| | - Julie N Côté
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, 475 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, Quebec, H2W 1S4, Canada; Feil & Oberfeld/CRIR Research Center, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, 3205 Alton, Goldbloom Place, Laval, Quebec, H7V 1R2, Canada.
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Baker R, Coenen P, Howie E, Lee J, Williamson A, Straker L. A detailed description of the short-term musculoskeletal and cognitive effects of prolonged standing for office computer work. ERGONOMICS 2018; 61:877-890. [PMID: 29388500 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2017.1420825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Due to concerns about excessive sedentary exposure for office workers, alternate work positions such as standing are being trialled. However, prolonged standing may have health and productivity impacts, which this study assessed. Twenty adult participants undertook two hours of laboratory-based standing computer work to investigate changes in discomfort and cognitive function, along with muscle fatigue, movement, lower limb swelling and mental state. Over time, discomfort increased in all body areas (total body IRR [95% confidence interval]: 1.47[1.36-1.59]). Sustained attention reaction time (β = 18.25[8.00-28.51]) deteriorated, while creative problem solving improved (β = 0.89[0.29-1.49]). There was no change in erector spinae, rectus femoris, biceps femoris or tibialis anterior muscle fatigue; low back angle changed towards less lordosis, pelvis movement increased, lower limb swelling increased and mental state decreased. Body discomfort was positively correlated with mental state. The observed changes suggest replacing office work sitting with standing should be done with caution. Practitioner Summary: Standing is being used to replace sitting by office workers; however, there are health risks associated with prolonged standing. In a laboratory study involving 2 h prolonged standing discomfort increased (all body areas), reaction time and mental state deteriorated while creative problem-solving improved. Prolonged standing should be undertaken with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richelle Baker
- a Faculty of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Pieter Coenen
- a Faculty of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
- b Department of Public and Occupational Health , Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU University Medical Center , Amsterdam , the Netherlands
| | - Erin Howie
- a Faculty of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
- c Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation , University of Arkansas , Fayetteville , AR , USA
| | - Jeremy Lee
- a Faculty of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Ann Williamson
- d Faculty of Science, School of Aviation , University of New South Wales , Sydney , Australia
| | - Leon Straker
- a Faculty of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
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Antle DM, Cormier L, Findlay M, Miller LL, Côté JN. Lower limb blood flow and mean arterial pressure during standing and seated work: Implications for workplace posture recommendations. Prev Med Rep 2018; 10:117-122. [PMID: 29850397 PMCID: PMC5966524 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sit-stand workstations are a popular workplace intervention. Organizations often require a medical professional's guidance for implementation. Therefore, it is important to understand potential negative outcomes associated with standing work, such as lower limb discomfort and peripheral vascular issues. The objective of this study was to compare changes in lower limb discomfort, blood pressure and blood flow accumulation during a light-load repetitive upper limb work task accomplished from seated and standing postures. At the Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital (Laval, Quebec, Canada), 16 participants were outfitted with Laser Doppler Flow (LDF) electrodes to measure blood flow in the lower limb, and a sphygmomanometer to measure lower limb mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Participants completed simulated work over 34 min in standing and seated conditions. Repeated measures ANOVAs (Posture x Time) were used to assess the differences. There were significant effects for both Posture (p = 0.003) and Time (p = 0.007) for LDF-measured of blood flow accumulation in the soleus and the foot, with a mean increase of 77% blood flow over time in the standing posture, when compared to seated work. There was a significant 'Posture × Time' (p = 0.0034) interaction effect and a significant Posture (p = 0.0001) effect for MAP, with higher values in the standing posture by a mean of 37.2 mmHg. Posture had a significant effect (p < 0.001) on lower limb discomfort, with standing posture reporting higher levels. These results suggest that recommendations for using static standing work postures should be tempered, and physicians' guidance on workstation changes should consider the impacts on the lower limb.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Antle
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- MD Program, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Lauren Cormier
- MD Program, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Megan Findlay
- MD Program, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Julie N. Côté
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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16
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Glinka M, Metzger S, Viggiani D, Callaghan J. The effect of task type and perceived demands on postural movements during standing work. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2018; 69:146-152. [PMID: 29477322 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated how task demands affect postural behaviour during standing. Twenty-four participants completed three different 12-min tasks: (1) a cognitive task that involved answering questions based on a written passage; (2) a light manual assembly task; and (3) standing quietly with no secondary task. The manual task was associated with the lowest amount of postural movement and a more static pose than the other two conditions. Specifically, postural variability of the lumbar (F = 5.8; p = 0.01) and thoracic (F = 4.2; p = 0.03) spine, and fidgets and shifts of the spine (F = 3.2; p = 0.048), were lowest in the manual task. Additionally, individuals perceiving tasks to be more demanding-regardless of task type-tended to move less (p = 0.049) than those perceiving lower demands. These findings provide important initial evidence that the type and perceived demands of standing work tasks can affect postural movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Glinka
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sabrina Metzger
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Viggiani
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jack Callaghan
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
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17
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Biswas A, Smith PM, Alter DA. Is promoting six hours of standing an appropriate public health message? Eur J Prev Cardiol 2018. [PMID: 29517276 DOI: 10.1177/2047487318763430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter M Smith
- 1 Institute for Work & Health, Canada.,2 Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - David A Alter
- 2 Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Canada.,3 Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation Program, University Health Network-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Canada, Canada
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18
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Smith P, Ma H, Glazier RH, Gilbert-Ouimet M, Mustard C. The Relationship Between Occupational Standing and Sitting and Incident Heart Disease Over a 12-Year Period in Ontario, Canada. Am J Epidemiol 2018; 187:27-33. [PMID: 29020132 PMCID: PMC5860480 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While a growing body of research is examining the impacts of prolonged occupational sitting on cardiovascular and other health risk factors, relatively little work has examined the effects of occupational standing. The objectives of this paper were to examine the relationship between occupations that require predominantly sitting and those that require predominantly standing and incident heart disease. A prospective cohort study combining responses to a population health survey with administrative health-care records, linked at the individual level, was conducted in Ontario, Canada. The sample included 7,320 employed labor-market participants (50% male) working 15 hours a week or more and free of heart disease at baseline. Incident heart disease was assessed using administrative records over an approximately 12-year follow-up period (2003-2015). Models adjusted for a wide range of potential confounding factors. Occupations involving predominantly standing were associated with an approximately 2-fold risk of heart disease compared with occupations involving predominantly sitting. This association was robust to adjustment for other health, sociodemographic, and work variables. Cardiovascular risk associated with occupations that involve combinations of sitting, standing, and walking differed for men and women, with these occupations associated with lower cardiovascular risk estimates among men but elevated risk estimates among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Smith
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Huiting Ma
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard H Glazier
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto and St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mahée Gilbert-Ouimet
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Quebec, Canada
| | - Cameron Mustard
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Coenen P, Parry S, Willenberg L, Shi JW, Romero L, Blackwood DM, Healy GN, Dunstan DW, Straker LM. Associations of prolonged standing with musculoskeletal symptoms-A systematic review of laboratory studies. Gait Posture 2017; 58:310-318. [PMID: 28863296 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2017.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
While prolonged standing has shown to be detrimentally associated with musculoskeletal symptoms, exposure limits and underlying mechanisms are not well understood. We systematically reviewed evidence from laboratory studies on musculoskeletal symptom development during prolonged (≥20min) uninterrupted standing, quantified acute dose-response associations and described underlying mechanisms. Peer-reviewed articles were systematically searched for. Data from included articles were tabulated, and dose-response associations were statistically pooled. A linear interpolation of pooled dose-response associations was performed to estimate the duration of prolonged standing associated with musculoskeletal symptoms with a clinically relevant intensity of ≥9 (out of 100). We included 26 articles (from 25 studies with 591 participants), of which the majority examined associations of prolonged standing with low back and lower extremity symptoms. Evidence on other (e.g., upper limb) symptoms was limited and inconsistent. Pooled dose-response associations showed that clinically relevant levels of low back symptoms were reached after 71min of prolonged standing, with this shortened to 42min in those considered pain developers. Regarding standing-related low back symptoms, consistent evidence was found for postural mechanisms (i.e., trunk flexion and lumbar curvature), but not for mechanisms of muscle fatigue and/or variation in movement. Blood pooling was the most consistently reported mechanism for standing-related lower extremity symptoms. Evidence suggests a detrimental association of prolonged standing with low back and lower extremity symptoms. To avoid musculoskeletal symptoms (without having a-priori knowledge on whether someone will develop symptoms or not), dose-response evidence from this study suggests a recommendation to refrain from standing for prolonged periods >40min. Interventions should also focus on underlying pain mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Coenen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU University Medical Center, van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia.
| | - Sharon Parry
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia.
| | - Lisa Willenberg
- Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
| | - Joyce W Shi
- Monash Health, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
| | - Lorena Romero
- Alfred Hospital, 55 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
| | - Diana M Blackwood
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia.
| | - Genevieve N Healy
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia; The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Corner of Herston Road and Wyndham Street, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, 75 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia.
| | - David W Dunstan
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Corner of Herston Road and Wyndham Street, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, 75 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia; School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia; School of Sport Science, Exercise and Health, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, 215 Spring Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.
| | - Leon M Straker
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia.
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20
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Anderson J, Williams AE, Nester CJ. A narrative review of musculoskeletal problems of the lower extremity and back associated with the interface between occupational tasks, feet, footwear and flooring. Musculoskeletal Care 2016; 15:304-315. [PMID: 28032439 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
At least 50% of workers are exposed to the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) due to spending prolonged hours standing at work. There is a lack of information regarding issues with the feet, solutions to the problem, and links between MSD, feet, footwear and flooring. The present article provides a narrative review of the research in this area, based on 31 papers. Workers who stand for large proportions of the working day had a level of MSD considerably greater than a normal population. Muscle co-activation, blood pooling, muscle fatigue and individual characteristics are all associated with MSD. Altering flooring provided mixed results, while footwear appeared to have the potential to affect MSD, although the dearth of literature limited the conclusions that could be drawn. Despite their inextricable link, literature regarding the relationship between occupational tasks, MSD, footwear and flooring remains limited and future studies will benefit from rigorously designed protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Anderson
- Centre for Health Sciences Research, University of Salford, Salford, UK
| | - Anita E Williams
- Centre for Health Sciences Research, University of Salford, Salford, UK
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21
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Coenen P, Willenberg L, Parry S, Shi JW, Romero L, Blackwood DM, Maher CG, Healy GN, Dunstan DW, Straker LM. Associations of occupational standing with musculoskeletal symptoms: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med 2016; 52:176-183. [PMID: 27884862 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Given the high exposure to occupational standing in specific occupations, and recent initiatives to encourage intermittent standing among white-collar workers, a better understanding of the potential health consequences of occupational standing is required. We aimed to review and quantify the epidemiological evidence on associations of occupational standing with musculoskeletal symptoms. DESIGN A systematic review was performed. Data from included articles were extracted and described, and meta-analyses conducted when data were sufficiently homogeneous. DATA SOURCES Electronic databases were systematically searched. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Peer-reviewed articles on occupational standing and musculoskeletal symptoms from epidemiological studies were identified. RESULTS Of the 11 750 articles screened, 50 articles reporting 49 studies were included (45 cross-sectional and 5 longitudinal; n=88 158 participants) describing the associations of occupational standing with musculoskeletal symptoms, including low-back (39 articles), lower extremity (14 articles) and upper extremity (18 articles) symptoms. In the meta-analysis, 'substantial' (>4 hours/workday) occupational standing was associated with the occurrence of low-back symptoms (pooled OR (95% CI) 1.31 (1.10 to 1.56)). Evidence on lower and upper extremity symptoms was too heterogeneous for meta-analyses. The majority of included studies reported statistically significant detrimental associations of occupational standing with lower extremity, but not with upper extremity symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The evidence suggests that substantial occupational standing is associated with the occurrence of low-back and (inconclusively) lower extremity symptoms, but there may not be such an association with upper extremity symptoms. However, these conclusions are tentative as only limited evidence was found from high-quality, longitudinal studies with fully adjusted models using objective measures of standing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Coenen
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa Willenberg
- Centre for International Health, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon Parry
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Joyce W Shi
- Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Diana M Blackwood
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Christopher G Maher
- Musculoskeletal Division, Sydney Medical School, The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Genevieve N Healy
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Dunstan
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Sport Science, Exercise and Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leon M Straker
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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22
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Cudlip AC, Callaghan JP, Dickerson CR. Effects of sitting and standing on upper extremity physical exposures in materials handling tasks. ERGONOMICS 2015; 58:1637-1646. [PMID: 25993653 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2015.1035763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Sitting or standing work configurations modulate musculoskeletal risk. Most existing investigations of these configurations have either studied them separately or lacked focus on the upper extremity, particularly during manual materials handling (MMH) tasks. To address this gap, upper extremity loading in 20 male and 20 females were assessed in 4 MMH tasks in sitting and standing. Differences in electromyographic (EMG) activity, local joint moments and body discomfort between configurations were examined. Interactions between task and sit/stand configuration resulted in increases of up to 500% in joint moments, 94% in EMG activity and 880% in discomfort when tasks were completed while sitting (p < 0.01). Future MMH task designers should consider placing workers in standing postures when feasible to reduce upper extremity loading, but workers should not remain in either configuration for extended periods of time as the negative effects of both workspace geometries can instigate future musculoskeletal disorders. Practitioner Summary: Sitting and standing modify occupational musculoskeletal risk. We examined how performing identical tasks while sitting or standing altered upper extremity and low back loading. In general, sitting increased muscle activity and discomfort, while standing increased local joint moments. The benefits of standing outweighed those of sitting across the range of tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan C Cudlip
- a Department of Kinesiology , University of Waterloo , 200 University Avenue W, Waterloo , ON , Canada N2L 3G1
| | - Jack P Callaghan
- a Department of Kinesiology , University of Waterloo , 200 University Avenue W, Waterloo , ON , Canada N2L 3G1
| | - Clark R Dickerson
- a Department of Kinesiology , University of Waterloo , 200 University Avenue W, Waterloo , ON , Canada N2L 3G1
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23
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Messing K, Stock S, Côté J, Tissot F. Is sitting worse than static standing? How a gender analysis can move us toward understanding determinants and effects of occupational standing and walking. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2015; 12:D11-D17. [PMID: 25493919 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2014.987388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The Yant Award was established in 1964 to honor the contributions of William P. Yant, the first president of the American Industrial Hygiene Association. It is presented annually for outstanding contributions in industrial hygiene or allied fields to an individual residing outside the United States. The 2014 award recipient is Dr. Karen Messing, Professor emeritus, Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal and Researcher, CINBIOSE Research Centre. Gender (socially determined) differences in occupations, employment, and working conditions, task assignments, and work methods that affect exposure to health risks are increasingly documented. Interactions of (biologically influenced) sex differences with workplace parameters may also influence exposure levels. During field studies, ergonomists learn a lot about gender and sex that can be important when generating and testing hypotheses about the mechanisms that link workplace exposures to health outcomes. Prolonged standing is common in North America; almost half (45%) of Québec workers spend more than three-quarters of their working time on their feet and 40% of these cannot sit at will. This posture has been linked to chronic back pain and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the lower limbs, but many health professionals suggest workers should stand rather than sit at work. We ask: (1) Given the fact that roughly the same proportion of men and women stand at work, what does a gender-sensitive analysis add to our ability to detect and thus prevent work-related MSDs?; (2) How does ergonomics research inform gender-sensitive analysis of occupational health data?; and (3) What do researchers need to know to orient interventions to improve general working postures? We have sought answers to these questions through collaborative research with specialists in epidemiology, occupational medicine, biomechanics, and physiology, carried out in partnership with public health organisations, community groups, and unions. We conclude that failure to characterize prolonged static standing and to apply gender-sensitive analysis can confuse assessment of musculoskeletal and circulatory effects of working postures. We suggest that prolonged static sitting and standing postures can and should be avoided by changes to workplace organization and environments. Research is needed to define optimal walking speeds and arrive at optimal ratios of sitting, standing, and walking in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Messing
- a Department of Biological Sciences and CINBIOSE Research Centre , Université du Québec à Montréal , Montreal , Québec , Canada
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