We evaluated a participatory ergonomic intervention process applied in 59 municipal kitchens. In groups of three to five kitchens, the workers participated in eight workshops, and generated and evaluated solutions to optimize musculoskeletal load in their work. An ergonomist initiated and supported the process. By the end, 402 changes were implemented. Evaluative data were collected using resea...

Excessive muscle load and fatigue may lead to disorders of the musculoskeletal system [1, 2]. Load and fatigue of the musculoskeletal system can be assessed with usage of non-invasive surface electromyography (EMG) [3]. Studies indicate, that the EMG signal is affected not only by muscle force and fatigue, but also by subcutaneous layer [4, 5]. Fatty tissue layer between the electrode and the m...

As the lumbar region of the spine is particularly predisposed to musculoskeletal disorders, the aim of this article was to assess lumbar spine load on the basis of an accurate model of this part of the body. The model was developed with the finite element method and the energy criterion for optimising muscle work. Computer calculations confirmed that stresses and compression forces in intervert...

INTRODUCTION There has been a discrepancy between in vivo and in vitro experiments investigating the load carrying capacity of human lumbar spine. A follower load concept was introduced to explain this discrepancy [1]. A follower load is a compressive load applied along a path that approximates the tangent to the curve of the column. The trunk muscles are supposed to generate the follower load ...

The musculoskeletal system functions because of the precise and coordinated assembly of its components, namely bones and joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. This coordination requires cross-talk between the tissues, which is mediated by various molecular and mechanical cues. In this review, we summarize the progress that has been made in understanding the involvement of mechanical loads exe...

During pregnancy, the female body experiences structural changes, such as weight gain. As pregnancy advances, most of the additional mass is concentrated anteriorly on the lower trunk. The purpose of this study is to analyze kinematic and kinetic changes when load is added anteriorly to the trunk, simulating a physical change experienced during pregnancy. Twenty healthy females walked on a trea...

Overexertion and pain of the musculoskeletal system may occur partly owing to load application by the equipment. Both the weight of equipment and the duration of loading are relevant. The aim of the present study was to examine the extent of loading and resultant strain in the trunk muscles. Therefore, the trunk posture of soldiers and muscular activity in reaction to different equipment compon...

The backpack is one of the several forms of manual load carriage that provides versatility and is often used by bikers, backpackers and soldiers, as well as school students. However, musculoskeletal problems associated with backpack use have become an increasing concern with school children . The combined effects of heavy load, position of the load on the body, size and shape of the load, load ...