The Effects of a Continuous Passive Motion Device on Myoelectric Activity of the Erector Spinae During Prolonged Sitting at a Computer Workstation
By Beach, Tyson A.C.; Mooney, Stephanie K.; Callaghan, Jack P.; Work: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment & Rehabilitation, Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 237-244Publication Date: 2003
Study to investigate the effects of the Backcycler from Ergomedics on lumbar and thoracic erector spinae muscle activation using surface electromyography, and on subjective discomfort during prolonged seated computer work. The Backcycler is a continuous passive motion device that is used to reduce levels of static back muscle activation, which is presumed to accompany periods of prolonged sitting. The Backcycler reduces static muscle activity by producing time-varying changes in lumbar support. Eight volunteers were recruited from a university student population, and four pairs of disposable Medi-Trace surface electromyographic electrodes were applied to the skin surface bilaterally over the thoracic erector spinae muscles. Participants were also asked to perform a maximum voluntary contraction of the monitored muscles in order to normalize the electromyographic data. All of the participants performed two consecutive one-hour sitting trials; one trial involved sitting in a normal chair, while the second involved the use of electromyographic stimulation from the Backcycler. No significant differences in average muscle activations levels were found. The results indicate that the Backcycler does not reduce muscle pain or fatigue in pain-free individuals.
Published by: IOS Press (Website:http://www.iospress.nl)
