This study investigated the relationship between low back pain (LBP) and sitting behavior among 64 call center employees. Seventy-five percent reported chronic or acute back pain. Those with chronic LBP tended to sit in a more static manner compared to pain-free individuals. A greater association was found between sitting behavior and chronic LBP than acute pain, likely because those with chronic pain are more aware of less painful sitting positions. The study used a pressure mat to objectively evaluate and parameterize sitting behavior over 400 hours to determine if those with LBP exhibit different sitting patterns than those without LBP.
Study of the Role of Correct Chair Armrest Position in Eliminating Neck -Shou...QUESTJOURNAL
Background:Neck-Shoulder pain (NSP) is frequent in the office working population. It is an important burden, with high costs in several organizations. There have been very few studies on shoulder disorders. Moreover, shoulder and neck disorders are not always distinguished, although their risk factors may differ. Methods:The results presented here come from a study conducted in 2013-14among office workers exposed to repetitive work on the computer in an office set-up in an organization. The Results show that, based on clinical examination and standard questionnaire on ergonomics, & walk through assessment of the work place, followed by advice on correct posture and proper ARM Rest position helped in reducing the pain and associated morbidity to a significant extend, as compared to the control group. The prevalence, based on clinical examination, was high among those exposed to repetitive work, significantly higher than in the unexposed group. The objective of the present study was to examine the role of proper Armrest in preventingdevelopment of disability and associated morbidity factors for the onset of NSP. Results:Analyses of the association between NSP and work related physical factors, revealed that NSP was significantly associated with computer working time. The protective effect of rest breaks (power Naps) wasobserved in this study. Breaks allow a reduction in computer exposure, but more especially permit muscle relaxation. The most important intervention apart from the one mentioned above was with the use of correct arm rest which in turn correct the shoulder, elbow and wrist angles, which goes a long way in correcting the NSP. Conclusions:the present study was done to highlight the value of simple intervention & proper follow-up, in the prevention of developing a major disability.
JustStand Summit 2013 - Dr. Genevieve HealyErgotron, Inc.
Dr. Genevieve Healy's research focuses on reducing prolonged sitting, especially among office workers. Her work shows that regularly interrupting sitting is important for heart health. Current research examines how sitting varies between populations and strategies to reduce sitting in workplaces. This includes the Stand Up Australia program, which investigates sitting patterns in office workers and effective strategies to reduce and change sitting time, such as organizational policies and environmental modifications.
This study examined the active self-correction of spinal curvatures in 249 children (136 females, 113 males aged 10-14 years) in response to the command "straighten your back". Spinal angles were measured in standing and sitting positions both spontaneously and after the command. In standing, the command significantly increased sacral slope and decreased lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, and lower and upper thoracic kyphosis. In sitting, the command significantly changed sacral slope and lumbar lordosis from kyphotic to lordotic and significantly reduced thoracic kyphosis and flattened lower thoracic kyphosis. There were some gender differences in self-correction of lumbar lordosis and upper thoracic kyphosis
This PhD thesis explored the health implications and socio-ecological determinants of sedentary behaviour. Specifically, it examined: 1) the associations between self-reported leisure-time and occupational sitting with cardiometabolic health risk factors; 2) the associations between work and leisure sitting with cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness; and 3) how housing characteristics and occupation type relate to levels of sitting. The results suggest that leisure-time sitting, rather than occupational sitting, is more adversely associated with health markers. Additionally, housing characteristics like household size were found to influence leisure-time sitting levels.
This study examined determinants of intention to continue using a lumbar support among home care workers with recurrent low back pain. The strongest predictor of intention was positive attitude towards lumbar supports, explaining 41% of the variance. A positive attitude indicated that perceived benefits of lumbar supports, such as pain relief, outweighed discomfort of use. Social support and self-efficacy were less influential on intention. Overall, intention to continue lumbar support use was primarily driven by workers' positive evaluation of the device's ability to manage their low back pain.
This document provides a literature review on work overload and the development of low back pain among nurses. The review finds that the prevalence of low back pain among nurses, especially ICU nurses, is very high, ranging from 70-90%. Key risk factors identified include long standing hours, heavy workload, patient handling duties, and shift work. Several studies conclude that occupational bending, twisting, and patient handling tasks increase the risk of developing low back pain. Improving nurse staffing and reducing shift work may help decrease the prevalence of low back pain among nurses.
Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office Workers in Shahid Behesh...Health Educators Inc
This study assessed work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among 420 office workers in Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran. The most prevalent WMSD was lower back pain (13.3%), followed by neck pain (11%) and wrist pain (10.2%). Variables like age, gender, employment status, duration of pain, duration of treatment, and BMI were significantly related to WMSDs. Since WMSDs were prevalent, designing intervention studies and further research to confirm the results were recommended.
Study of the Role of Correct Chair Armrest Position in Eliminating Neck -Shou...QUESTJOURNAL
Background:Neck-Shoulder pain (NSP) is frequent in the office working population. It is an important burden, with high costs in several organizations. There have been very few studies on shoulder disorders. Moreover, shoulder and neck disorders are not always distinguished, although their risk factors may differ. Methods:The results presented here come from a study conducted in 2013-14among office workers exposed to repetitive work on the computer in an office set-up in an organization. The Results show that, based on clinical examination and standard questionnaire on ergonomics, & walk through assessment of the work place, followed by advice on correct posture and proper ARM Rest position helped in reducing the pain and associated morbidity to a significant extend, as compared to the control group. The prevalence, based on clinical examination, was high among those exposed to repetitive work, significantly higher than in the unexposed group. The objective of the present study was to examine the role of proper Armrest in preventingdevelopment of disability and associated morbidity factors for the onset of NSP. Results:Analyses of the association between NSP and work related physical factors, revealed that NSP was significantly associated with computer working time. The protective effect of rest breaks (power Naps) wasobserved in this study. Breaks allow a reduction in computer exposure, but more especially permit muscle relaxation. The most important intervention apart from the one mentioned above was with the use of correct arm rest which in turn correct the shoulder, elbow and wrist angles, which goes a long way in correcting the NSP. Conclusions:the present study was done to highlight the value of simple intervention & proper follow-up, in the prevention of developing a major disability.
JustStand Summit 2013 - Dr. Genevieve HealyErgotron, Inc.
Dr. Genevieve Healy's research focuses on reducing prolonged sitting, especially among office workers. Her work shows that regularly interrupting sitting is important for heart health. Current research examines how sitting varies between populations and strategies to reduce sitting in workplaces. This includes the Stand Up Australia program, which investigates sitting patterns in office workers and effective strategies to reduce and change sitting time, such as organizational policies and environmental modifications.
This study examined the active self-correction of spinal curvatures in 249 children (136 females, 113 males aged 10-14 years) in response to the command "straighten your back". Spinal angles were measured in standing and sitting positions both spontaneously and after the command. In standing, the command significantly increased sacral slope and decreased lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, and lower and upper thoracic kyphosis. In sitting, the command significantly changed sacral slope and lumbar lordosis from kyphotic to lordotic and significantly reduced thoracic kyphosis and flattened lower thoracic kyphosis. There were some gender differences in self-correction of lumbar lordosis and upper thoracic kyphosis
This PhD thesis explored the health implications and socio-ecological determinants of sedentary behaviour. Specifically, it examined: 1) the associations between self-reported leisure-time and occupational sitting with cardiometabolic health risk factors; 2) the associations between work and leisure sitting with cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness; and 3) how housing characteristics and occupation type relate to levels of sitting. The results suggest that leisure-time sitting, rather than occupational sitting, is more adversely associated with health markers. Additionally, housing characteristics like household size were found to influence leisure-time sitting levels.
This study examined determinants of intention to continue using a lumbar support among home care workers with recurrent low back pain. The strongest predictor of intention was positive attitude towards lumbar supports, explaining 41% of the variance. A positive attitude indicated that perceived benefits of lumbar supports, such as pain relief, outweighed discomfort of use. Social support and self-efficacy were less influential on intention. Overall, intention to continue lumbar support use was primarily driven by workers' positive evaluation of the device's ability to manage their low back pain.
This document provides a literature review on work overload and the development of low back pain among nurses. The review finds that the prevalence of low back pain among nurses, especially ICU nurses, is very high, ranging from 70-90%. Key risk factors identified include long standing hours, heavy workload, patient handling duties, and shift work. Several studies conclude that occupational bending, twisting, and patient handling tasks increase the risk of developing low back pain. Improving nurse staffing and reducing shift work may help decrease the prevalence of low back pain among nurses.
Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office Workers in Shahid Behesh...Health Educators Inc
This study assessed work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among 420 office workers in Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran. The most prevalent WMSD was lower back pain (13.3%), followed by neck pain (11%) and wrist pain (10.2%). Variables like age, gender, employment status, duration of pain, duration of treatment, and BMI were significantly related to WMSDs. Since WMSDs were prevalent, designing intervention studies and further research to confirm the results were recommended.
This study examined the effectiveness of computer-designed insoles in reducing low back pain among 58 employees whose jobs involved extensive walking. The employees were randomly assigned to use either the computer-designed insoles or placebo insoles for 5 weeks, then switched to the other insole for another 5 weeks. Those using the computer-designed insoles experienced a greater reduction in reported low back pain according to a standardized questionnaire, with average pain decreasing by 1.49 points compared to a decrease of 0.31 points for those using placebo insoles. 81% of employees preferred the computer-designed insoles as more effective and comfortable than the placebo insoles. The results suggest computer-designed insoles more effectively reduce low back pain in workers whose
The study evaluated the effects of working in non-sitting workstations from "The End of Sitting" on energy expenditure and comfort. 24 participants worked in four different workstations and a sitting workstation for 10 minutes each while energy expenditure was measured. Most non-sitting workstations increased energy expenditure compared to sitting, suggesting they are healthier. Discomfort was caused by external forces on the body and muscle strain in some postures. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term effects on comfort and productivity.
The evidence-based analysis of standing and sitting postures.
In the last year or so, media has been flooded with articles about ill effects of prolonged sitting and the need for standing up when working. There have also been research reports calling sitting as “new smoking” and linking it with everything from risk of cancer, heart disease and “dying 2 years sooner”. How much of this is true? And how much is the hype created by furniture companies and social media? Must everyone have an expensive stand-sit desk? Are there any jobs which are better done sitting down than standing or vice versa? Are there any downsides to standing, too? This talk examines the topic of standing vs sitting at work holistically and objectively. Leveraging on human anatomy, biomechanics and years of empirical research in the field of workspace ergonomics, you will understand the finer nuances of sitting vs standing postures and it’s long term effects on health and productivity. From a practical stand-point, you will also be able to know the various strategies an organization may implement to enable its employees to adopt the right postures and the return-on-investment for the different options.
Your interests and goals naturally change over time, but how do you know if you’re ready to think about a change of job? Here at Godrej Interio are a few indicators that it might be time for you to make your move.
In this assignment, students develop a 1,250-1,500 word change proposal paper that applies components worked on throughout the course, including a background, problem statement, purpose, PICOT question, literature search strategy, literature evaluation, change theory, implementation plan with outcomes, and potential barriers. The paper is to be formatted according to APA style guidelines and submitted to Turnitin to check for plagiarism. Feedback from previous assignments should be incorporated. Attached papers provide reference examples and should not be directly plagiarized.
International Journal of Caring Sciences September-December 2020 Volume 13 | Issue 3| Page 2131
www.internationaljournalofcaringsciences.org
Original Article
Effects of Low Back Pain on Functional Disability Level and Quality of Life
in Nurses Working in a University Hospital
Ipek Kose Tosunoz, MSc
Lecturer, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay School of Health, Nursing Department, Hatay, Turkey
Gursel Oztunc, PhD
Professor, University of Kyrenia, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing Department, Kyrenia, Cyprus
Correspondence: Ipek Kose Tosunoz, MSc, Lecturer, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay School of Health,
Nursing Department, Hatay, Turkey E-mail address: [email protected]
Abstract
Background: The nurses are under a greater risk in terms of Low Back Pain (LBP) and LBP can affect the nurses’
quality of life adversely and result in disability. This study aims at analysing the effects of LBP on functional
disability level and quality of life in nurses.
Methods: This is a descriptive study. The population consisted of all the nurses working at a university hospital. The
whole population was included in the sampling. 514 nurses participated in the study. The confirmation of the ethics
committee and permission of the institution were obtained prior to the study. The data were collected via Personal
Information Form, Quality of Life Scale Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).
Objectives: This study aims at exploring the effects of Low Back Pain (LBP) on functional disability level and
quality of life in nurses.
Material and Methods: This is a descriptive study. The population consisted of all the nurses working at a
university hospital. The whole population was included in the sampling. 514 nurses participated in the study. The
confirmation of the ethics committee and permission of the institution were obtained prior to the study. The data
were collected via Personal Information Form, Quality of Life Scale Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Oswestry Disability
Index (ODI).
Results: It was found that 85.4% of the nurses had low back pain at any stage of their life and 57.8% had continuing
back pain. Nurses’ average scores are lower for each subscale of the SF-36 except for Emotional Role when
compared with other nurses who do not suffer from LBP. The mean score that the nurses with low back pain
obtained from the ODI was 11.09 ± 6.18 and majority of the nurses experiences mild disability. It was indicated that
there is a negative correlation between nurses’ average scores for all subscales of SF-36 and ODI (p<.05).
Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that LBP is a common health problem among working nurse. LBP
affects the nurses’ quality of life adversely and results in disability. Taking necessary precautions for the prevention
of LBP in nurses would provide positive effects on nurses’ quality of life and functional levels.
Keywords: Lo ...
Sintomas musculoesqueleticos en dentistasFelipe Chacón
This study examined the relationship between work posture and musculoskeletal complaints in 60 male Israeli dentists. The key findings were:
1) The most common musculoskeletal symptoms reported in the last 12 months were in the lower back (55% of dentists) and neck (38%).
2) Dentists who worked in a sitting position for over 80% of the time reported more severe lower back pain than those who alternated between sitting and standing.
3) While age, workload, and hours worked were higher for dentists who alternated positions, alternating positions was still associated with less severe lower back pain. This suggests alternating positions may help reduce lower back pain for dentists.
Standing Up" For Students: Effects On Classroom PerformanceCSCJournals
It is known that there are many health risks associated with prolonged sedentary time, but breaking up periods of sitting can reduce these risks (Healy, 2008). University students experience excessive sedentary time during class. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sitting, dynamic sitting, and standing desks on classroom performance of university students. Based on a randomization sequence, 40 participants (N = 20, females, M age = 20.9) performed three classroom simulations using a classic, dynamic sitting, and standing desk. Each simulation included a typing and memory task. Participants were asked to type the paragraph displayed as fast and as accurate as possible while paying attention to a video. Following the video participants answered multiple-choice questions to assess memory. Results showed no significant differences in speed-accuracy or memory (all p values > .05, ?2 effect size range 0.001-0.027) between sitting, dynamic sitting, and standing desks.
Focus on Frailty breakout session: Functional Assessment for People Living wi...Health Innovation Wessex
This document discusses functional assessment for people living with frailty. It defines functional assessment as evaluating activities of daily living based on a social history. Hospital admission can negatively impact frailty patients' function, so assessment highlights areas for intervention. Therapists should be involved for complex cases or specific therapy. Assessment benefits include reducing frailty, improving outcomes, and allowing patients to live independently. It reviews tools for assessing gait, balance, and activities of daily living and discusses challenges of assessment in community settings.
Running head: LITERATURE REVIEW 13
LITERATURE REVIEW 8
Literature Review: ICU Quiet Time
Ese Noskhare
Walden University
Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice
NURS-6052-45
Running head: LITERATURE REVIEW 8
Introduction
Literature review represents very integral aspects of the research process. It is aimed at deriving out the current knowledge on the selected topic including the common patterns, contradictions, and gaps and, as a result, aid in determining what needs to be done by future researchers. In the present paper, the aim is to analyze and synthesize studies that have been conducted focusing on ICU Quiet time and more particularly, the effects of strict enforcement of scheduled hours of rest time on multiple incidences of delirium in adult critical-care patients in the ICU.
History
The onset of ICU Quiet time has been reported as dating back in the 1960s. It originated in the North America and, in particular, Quebec, Canada. It took place as a result of the natural continuation of creativity and innovations that occurred in Quebec. The period saw the introduction of the Hospital Insurance and Diagnostic Services Act, which brought rise to the concept and practice of public health insurance. This triggered the implementation of varied infrastructural projects in the health care. It is in the course of these changes that quiet time in ICUs was introduced with the aim of speeding up the healing of the patients. This practice prevails even in the modern day times.
Current Evidence
For a considerable period, research on ICU Quiet time has been rampant. Most of the frequent cited studies include Gardner, Collins, Osborne, Henderson, and Eastwood (2008), Maidl, Leske, and Garcia (2013), Olson, Borel, Laskowitz, Moore, and McConnell (2001), Richardson, Thompson, Coghill, Chambers, and Turnock (2009), Taylor (2008) and Weinhouse et al. (2009).
In their study, Gardner, Collins, Osborne, Henderson, and Eastwood (2008) used a sample of 299 participants. The sample received a scheduled quiet time intervention. In the process, the researchers evaluated the levels of noise, the rest of the inpatients, their sleep behaviors, and their well-being. It was concluded that the majority of the ICU patients are not usually concerned with noise. However, they often prefer a period in which they are not exposed to noise. The researchers also identified that nurses also see a great value in ICU Quiet time. In another study by Maidl, Leske, and Garcia (2013), the researchers carried out a set of non-randomized, uncontrolled quiet time trials in ICUs. The intervention involved a reduction of the environmental stressors and enhanced patient rest prior to the onset of the trials. It was determined that ICU patients often prefer quiet time. Also, according to the researchers, the nursing practitioners that work in the ICUs also value quiet time as they are allowed to chart and, as a result, reduce their levels of stress. In the process, better care is .
paper regarding implementation of shakers exercise for impaired swallowing patients and compare pre , immediate and post implementation of the exercises
This research article investigates how visually demanding near work performed on a computer screen affects neck/shoulder discomfort. Thirty-three individuals with chronic neck pain and 33 healthy controls performed a visual task under four different viewing conditions using trial lenses. Eye and neck/shoulder discomfort were rated before and after each task. The results showed that neck/shoulder discomfort increased with longer task duration, uncorrected astigmatism, greater accommodation response, and higher ratings of internal eye discomfort. Previous neck pain and increased internal eye discomfort also led to greater neck/shoulder discomfort over time. Ensuring a good visual environment is important for occupations involving visually demanding near work to prevent more severe musculoskeletal symptoms.
Mitigating Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Employees Through Struct...ShreeGodrej
This document summarizes a study conducted by Godrej Interio's Workplace and Ergonomics Research Cell on implementing structured ergonomics training to minimize work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among office employees. The study assessed 500 office employees before and after ergonomics training. It found high rates of physical pain complaints and identified key risk factors for WMSDs like inappropriate postures, long work hours of static positions, and incorrect use of work tools. The training program educated employees on ergonomic principles, neutral postures, self-assessment techniques, and guidelines to improve behaviors. Post-training, employees reported improvements in comfort, reduced pain, and adoption of healthier workstation habits. Clients praised the systematic
The document discusses shoulder pain, specifically subacromial pain/non-specific shoulder pain. It notes that shoulder pain is prevalent, can impact daily activities, and for 40% of patients the pain is ongoing or recurrent after 12 months. Imaging and physical exams are not always reliable in diagnosing the source of pain. Exercise appears to be the most promising intervention for shoulder pain, though what type or amount of exercise is unclear. A proposed intervention focuses on teaching patients self-management skills and a home exercise program with 1-5 sessions from a physiotherapist and proactive follow-up.
Work–related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Healthcare Workers in a General ...CSCJournals
Background. Musculoskeletal disorders is the most common disease among healthcare workers. Which affects not only the quality of life but also the income, the health, the economy. In Vietnam, there are some research about the MSDs among healthcare workers and the factors affect this problem, especially, the ergonomic factors. Objective. To assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare workers in Cao Bang General Provincial Hospital, Vietnam and determine risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 healthcare workers in a general provincial hospital in Vietnam using the Nordic questionnaire and questionnaire. Results. High prevalence of musculoskeletal among healthcare workers during the past 12 months (62.4%) and last 7 days (45.9%), with the two most common sites being low back pain (48.2%) and neck (40%). Gender, work experience, total working hours, night shift work, and stress level showed the association with the MSDs in the past 12 months. Conclusion. Due to the high prevalence of MSDs among healthcare workers in a general provincial hospital, preventive actions are needed to improve the working conditions and to raise the awareness of healthcare workers about MSDs prevention.
Impact of exercise program on functional status among post lumbar laminectom...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that evaluated the impact of an exercise program on functional status in post-lumbar laminectomy patients. The study involved 30 patients who underwent a 6-week exercise program after lumbar laminectomy surgery. Outcome measures assessed pre-and post-operatively included pain, functional status, range of motion, and disability levels. The results showed that after participating in the exercise program, patients demonstrated significantly reduced pain levels and functional disabilities compared to pre-operative levels. The study concluded that exercise programs can effectively improve outcomes for post-lumbar laminectomy patients.
This study surveyed 479 non-physician health professionals from 27 European countries about extended roles and innovative models of care in rheumatology. The survey found that 430 (92%) of respondents reported performing extended roles, though there was considerable variation between countries. Barriers to extended roles included attitudes of rheumatologists in most countries surveyed and lack of education and opportunities in several countries. The study provides the first data on extended roles and models of care for non-physician professionals in rheumatology across Europe. It recommends increasing education and addressing barriers to further develop extended roles.
Corrective exercises in the treatment of scoliosisNikos Karavidas
Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE) can be used as an exclusive treatment for mild scoliosis and in combination with bracing for greater curves. There are 3 RCT's and 1 Systematic review with meta-analysis, which prove the effectiveness of the PSSE (Level of Evidence I)
At Apollo Hospital, Lucknow, U.P., we provide specialized care for children experiencing dehydration and other symptoms. We also offer NICU & PICU Ambulance Facility Services. Consult our expert today for the best pediatric emergency care.
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Address: Singar Nagar, LDA Colony, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226012
Phone: 08429021957
Opening Hours: 24X7
This study examined the effectiveness of computer-designed insoles in reducing low back pain among 58 employees whose jobs involved extensive walking. The employees were randomly assigned to use either the computer-designed insoles or placebo insoles for 5 weeks, then switched to the other insole for another 5 weeks. Those using the computer-designed insoles experienced a greater reduction in reported low back pain according to a standardized questionnaire, with average pain decreasing by 1.49 points compared to a decrease of 0.31 points for those using placebo insoles. 81% of employees preferred the computer-designed insoles as more effective and comfortable than the placebo insoles. The results suggest computer-designed insoles more effectively reduce low back pain in workers whose
The study evaluated the effects of working in non-sitting workstations from "The End of Sitting" on energy expenditure and comfort. 24 participants worked in four different workstations and a sitting workstation for 10 minutes each while energy expenditure was measured. Most non-sitting workstations increased energy expenditure compared to sitting, suggesting they are healthier. Discomfort was caused by external forces on the body and muscle strain in some postures. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term effects on comfort and productivity.
The evidence-based analysis of standing and sitting postures.
In the last year or so, media has been flooded with articles about ill effects of prolonged sitting and the need for standing up when working. There have also been research reports calling sitting as “new smoking” and linking it with everything from risk of cancer, heart disease and “dying 2 years sooner”. How much of this is true? And how much is the hype created by furniture companies and social media? Must everyone have an expensive stand-sit desk? Are there any jobs which are better done sitting down than standing or vice versa? Are there any downsides to standing, too? This talk examines the topic of standing vs sitting at work holistically and objectively. Leveraging on human anatomy, biomechanics and years of empirical research in the field of workspace ergonomics, you will understand the finer nuances of sitting vs standing postures and it’s long term effects on health and productivity. From a practical stand-point, you will also be able to know the various strategies an organization may implement to enable its employees to adopt the right postures and the return-on-investment for the different options.
Your interests and goals naturally change over time, but how do you know if you’re ready to think about a change of job? Here at Godrej Interio are a few indicators that it might be time for you to make your move.
In this assignment, students develop a 1,250-1,500 word change proposal paper that applies components worked on throughout the course, including a background, problem statement, purpose, PICOT question, literature search strategy, literature evaluation, change theory, implementation plan with outcomes, and potential barriers. The paper is to be formatted according to APA style guidelines and submitted to Turnitin to check for plagiarism. Feedback from previous assignments should be incorporated. Attached papers provide reference examples and should not be directly plagiarized.
International Journal of Caring Sciences September-December 2020 Volume 13 | Issue 3| Page 2131
www.internationaljournalofcaringsciences.org
Original Article
Effects of Low Back Pain on Functional Disability Level and Quality of Life
in Nurses Working in a University Hospital
Ipek Kose Tosunoz, MSc
Lecturer, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay School of Health, Nursing Department, Hatay, Turkey
Gursel Oztunc, PhD
Professor, University of Kyrenia, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing Department, Kyrenia, Cyprus
Correspondence: Ipek Kose Tosunoz, MSc, Lecturer, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay School of Health,
Nursing Department, Hatay, Turkey E-mail address: [email protected]
Abstract
Background: The nurses are under a greater risk in terms of Low Back Pain (LBP) and LBP can affect the nurses’
quality of life adversely and result in disability. This study aims at analysing the effects of LBP on functional
disability level and quality of life in nurses.
Methods: This is a descriptive study. The population consisted of all the nurses working at a university hospital. The
whole population was included in the sampling. 514 nurses participated in the study. The confirmation of the ethics
committee and permission of the institution were obtained prior to the study. The data were collected via Personal
Information Form, Quality of Life Scale Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).
Objectives: This study aims at exploring the effects of Low Back Pain (LBP) on functional disability level and
quality of life in nurses.
Material and Methods: This is a descriptive study. The population consisted of all the nurses working at a
university hospital. The whole population was included in the sampling. 514 nurses participated in the study. The
confirmation of the ethics committee and permission of the institution were obtained prior to the study. The data
were collected via Personal Information Form, Quality of Life Scale Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Oswestry Disability
Index (ODI).
Results: It was found that 85.4% of the nurses had low back pain at any stage of their life and 57.8% had continuing
back pain. Nurses’ average scores are lower for each subscale of the SF-36 except for Emotional Role when
compared with other nurses who do not suffer from LBP. The mean score that the nurses with low back pain
obtained from the ODI was 11.09 ± 6.18 and majority of the nurses experiences mild disability. It was indicated that
there is a negative correlation between nurses’ average scores for all subscales of SF-36 and ODI (p<.05).
Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that LBP is a common health problem among working nurse. LBP
affects the nurses’ quality of life adversely and results in disability. Taking necessary precautions for the prevention
of LBP in nurses would provide positive effects on nurses’ quality of life and functional levels.
Keywords: Lo ...
Sintomas musculoesqueleticos en dentistasFelipe Chacón
This study examined the relationship between work posture and musculoskeletal complaints in 60 male Israeli dentists. The key findings were:
1) The most common musculoskeletal symptoms reported in the last 12 months were in the lower back (55% of dentists) and neck (38%).
2) Dentists who worked in a sitting position for over 80% of the time reported more severe lower back pain than those who alternated between sitting and standing.
3) While age, workload, and hours worked were higher for dentists who alternated positions, alternating positions was still associated with less severe lower back pain. This suggests alternating positions may help reduce lower back pain for dentists.
Standing Up" For Students: Effects On Classroom PerformanceCSCJournals
It is known that there are many health risks associated with prolonged sedentary time, but breaking up periods of sitting can reduce these risks (Healy, 2008). University students experience excessive sedentary time during class. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sitting, dynamic sitting, and standing desks on classroom performance of university students. Based on a randomization sequence, 40 participants (N = 20, females, M age = 20.9) performed three classroom simulations using a classic, dynamic sitting, and standing desk. Each simulation included a typing and memory task. Participants were asked to type the paragraph displayed as fast and as accurate as possible while paying attention to a video. Following the video participants answered multiple-choice questions to assess memory. Results showed no significant differences in speed-accuracy or memory (all p values > .05, ?2 effect size range 0.001-0.027) between sitting, dynamic sitting, and standing desks.
Focus on Frailty breakout session: Functional Assessment for People Living wi...Health Innovation Wessex
This document discusses functional assessment for people living with frailty. It defines functional assessment as evaluating activities of daily living based on a social history. Hospital admission can negatively impact frailty patients' function, so assessment highlights areas for intervention. Therapists should be involved for complex cases or specific therapy. Assessment benefits include reducing frailty, improving outcomes, and allowing patients to live independently. It reviews tools for assessing gait, balance, and activities of daily living and discusses challenges of assessment in community settings.
Running head: LITERATURE REVIEW 13
LITERATURE REVIEW 8
Literature Review: ICU Quiet Time
Ese Noskhare
Walden University
Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice
NURS-6052-45
Running head: LITERATURE REVIEW 8
Introduction
Literature review represents very integral aspects of the research process. It is aimed at deriving out the current knowledge on the selected topic including the common patterns, contradictions, and gaps and, as a result, aid in determining what needs to be done by future researchers. In the present paper, the aim is to analyze and synthesize studies that have been conducted focusing on ICU Quiet time and more particularly, the effects of strict enforcement of scheduled hours of rest time on multiple incidences of delirium in adult critical-care patients in the ICU.
History
The onset of ICU Quiet time has been reported as dating back in the 1960s. It originated in the North America and, in particular, Quebec, Canada. It took place as a result of the natural continuation of creativity and innovations that occurred in Quebec. The period saw the introduction of the Hospital Insurance and Diagnostic Services Act, which brought rise to the concept and practice of public health insurance. This triggered the implementation of varied infrastructural projects in the health care. It is in the course of these changes that quiet time in ICUs was introduced with the aim of speeding up the healing of the patients. This practice prevails even in the modern day times.
Current Evidence
For a considerable period, research on ICU Quiet time has been rampant. Most of the frequent cited studies include Gardner, Collins, Osborne, Henderson, and Eastwood (2008), Maidl, Leske, and Garcia (2013), Olson, Borel, Laskowitz, Moore, and McConnell (2001), Richardson, Thompson, Coghill, Chambers, and Turnock (2009), Taylor (2008) and Weinhouse et al. (2009).
In their study, Gardner, Collins, Osborne, Henderson, and Eastwood (2008) used a sample of 299 participants. The sample received a scheduled quiet time intervention. In the process, the researchers evaluated the levels of noise, the rest of the inpatients, their sleep behaviors, and their well-being. It was concluded that the majority of the ICU patients are not usually concerned with noise. However, they often prefer a period in which they are not exposed to noise. The researchers also identified that nurses also see a great value in ICU Quiet time. In another study by Maidl, Leske, and Garcia (2013), the researchers carried out a set of non-randomized, uncontrolled quiet time trials in ICUs. The intervention involved a reduction of the environmental stressors and enhanced patient rest prior to the onset of the trials. It was determined that ICU patients often prefer quiet time. Also, according to the researchers, the nursing practitioners that work in the ICUs also value quiet time as they are allowed to chart and, as a result, reduce their levels of stress. In the process, better care is .
paper regarding implementation of shakers exercise for impaired swallowing patients and compare pre , immediate and post implementation of the exercises
This research article investigates how visually demanding near work performed on a computer screen affects neck/shoulder discomfort. Thirty-three individuals with chronic neck pain and 33 healthy controls performed a visual task under four different viewing conditions using trial lenses. Eye and neck/shoulder discomfort were rated before and after each task. The results showed that neck/shoulder discomfort increased with longer task duration, uncorrected astigmatism, greater accommodation response, and higher ratings of internal eye discomfort. Previous neck pain and increased internal eye discomfort also led to greater neck/shoulder discomfort over time. Ensuring a good visual environment is important for occupations involving visually demanding near work to prevent more severe musculoskeletal symptoms.
Mitigating Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Employees Through Struct...ShreeGodrej
This document summarizes a study conducted by Godrej Interio's Workplace and Ergonomics Research Cell on implementing structured ergonomics training to minimize work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among office employees. The study assessed 500 office employees before and after ergonomics training. It found high rates of physical pain complaints and identified key risk factors for WMSDs like inappropriate postures, long work hours of static positions, and incorrect use of work tools. The training program educated employees on ergonomic principles, neutral postures, self-assessment techniques, and guidelines to improve behaviors. Post-training, employees reported improvements in comfort, reduced pain, and adoption of healthier workstation habits. Clients praised the systematic
The document discusses shoulder pain, specifically subacromial pain/non-specific shoulder pain. It notes that shoulder pain is prevalent, can impact daily activities, and for 40% of patients the pain is ongoing or recurrent after 12 months. Imaging and physical exams are not always reliable in diagnosing the source of pain. Exercise appears to be the most promising intervention for shoulder pain, though what type or amount of exercise is unclear. A proposed intervention focuses on teaching patients self-management skills and a home exercise program with 1-5 sessions from a physiotherapist and proactive follow-up.
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Background. Musculoskeletal disorders is the most common disease among healthcare workers. Which affects not only the quality of life but also the income, the health, the economy. In Vietnam, there are some research about the MSDs among healthcare workers and the factors affect this problem, especially, the ergonomic factors. Objective. To assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare workers in Cao Bang General Provincial Hospital, Vietnam and determine risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 healthcare workers in a general provincial hospital in Vietnam using the Nordic questionnaire and questionnaire. Results. High prevalence of musculoskeletal among healthcare workers during the past 12 months (62.4%) and last 7 days (45.9%), with the two most common sites being low back pain (48.2%) and neck (40%). Gender, work experience, total working hours, night shift work, and stress level showed the association with the MSDs in the past 12 months. Conclusion. Due to the high prevalence of MSDs among healthcare workers in a general provincial hospital, preventive actions are needed to improve the working conditions and to raise the awareness of healthcare workers about MSDs prevention.
Impact of exercise program on functional status among post lumbar laminectom...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that evaluated the impact of an exercise program on functional status in post-lumbar laminectomy patients. The study involved 30 patients who underwent a 6-week exercise program after lumbar laminectomy surgery. Outcome measures assessed pre-and post-operatively included pain, functional status, range of motion, and disability levels. The results showed that after participating in the exercise program, patients demonstrated significantly reduced pain levels and functional disabilities compared to pre-operative levels. The study concluded that exercise programs can effectively improve outcomes for post-lumbar laminectomy patients.
This study surveyed 479 non-physician health professionals from 27 European countries about extended roles and innovative models of care in rheumatology. The survey found that 430 (92%) of respondents reported performing extended roles, though there was considerable variation between countries. Barriers to extended roles included attitudes of rheumatologists in most countries surveyed and lack of education and opportunities in several countries. The study provides the first data on extended roles and models of care for non-physician professionals in rheumatology across Europe. It recommends increasing education and addressing barriers to further develop extended roles.
Corrective exercises in the treatment of scoliosisNikos Karavidas
Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE) can be used as an exclusive treatment for mild scoliosis and in combination with bracing for greater curves. There are 3 RCT's and 1 Systematic review with meta-analysis, which prove the effectiveness of the PSSE (Level of Evidence I)
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The facial nerve, also known as cranial nerve VII, is one of the 12 cranial nerves originating from the brain. It's a mixed nerve, meaning it contains both sensory and motor fibres, and it plays a crucial role in controlling various facial muscles, as well as conveying sensory information from the taste buds on the anterior two-thirds of the tongue.
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2. into “perfect” sitting positions in terms of the “optimal” spinal curva-
ture during sitting (Waongenngarm et al., 2015; O'Sullivan et al.,
2012a; Pynt et al., 2001; Baumgartner et al., 2012; Zemp et al., 2013),
broad consensus is lacking, suggesting that the “correct” sitting position
might be subject-specific (Claus et al., 2016). Moreover, Claus et al.
(2009) proposed that any sustained sitting posture could result in fa-
tigue, discomfort and pain, suggesting that a “good” posture could still
be detrimental if it persists uninterrupted for extended periods (Coenen
et al., 2017). As a result, postural variability as well as regular small
movements are plausibly beneficial for the prevention of LBP (Davis
and Kotowski, 2014; Vergara and Page, 2002; Pynt et al., 2001;
Srinivasan and Mathiassen, 2012; Aarås et al., 2000).
Dynamic sitting behaviour is thought to provide beneficial biolo-
gical and physiological effects, since postural variations can reduce
spinal loads (Davis and Kotowski, 2014) and spinal shrinkage (van
Deursen et al., 2000), prevent muscle fatigue through alternating motor
unit activation (van Dieën et al., 2001), and inhibit damage to the
posterior aspect of the annulus pulposus by means of low magnitude
dynamic movements (Callaghan and McGill, 2001). Moreover, Straker
and Mathiassen (2009) indicated that short periods of inactivity can
already cause local changes regarding biomechanical, physiological and
neurological capability. It therefore appears reasonable that less dy-
namic sitting habits may result in discomfort and pain, especially in the
lower back.
In previous studies, different measurement technologies such as
video analysis (Womersley and May, 2006), accelerometers (Ryan
et al., 2011), optoelectronic motion analysis (Dunk and Callaghan,
2005), force sensors (Yamada et al., 2009; Zemp et al., 2016b) and
pressure distribution sensors (Zemp et al., 2016a) have all been used to
assess sitting behaviour. Here, pressure distribution sensors offer a re-
latively cheap measurement approach that neither disturbs nor affects
the subject during measurement, and allows high accuracy for classi-
fying individual sitting behaviour and positions (Zemp et al., 2016a;
Kamiya et al., 2008). Additionally, pressure mats are easily attachable
and therefore offer a practical solution for analysing the sitting beha-
viour of participants on their own chair.
A previously conducted pilot study (N = 20) demonstrated ten-
dencies towards a more static sitting behaviour in participants with
mild LBP (Zemp et al., 2016a). Towards gaining a deeper understanding
of the relationships between LBP and occupational sitting habits, the
goal of this study was to build on the previous pilot data and establish
whether call-centre employees with LBP express different sitting be-
haviour patterns from those without LBP.
2. Methods
2.1. Participants
Since the working task is known to strongly impact on sitting be-
haviour (van Dieën et al., 2001; Dunk and Callaghan, 2005; Ellegast
et al., 2012; Groenesteijn et al., 2012; Grooten et al., 2017), this study
selected a large number of participants that worked in an environment
with highly standardised working tasks. Furthermore, in order to
maintain real-world validity, no additional work assignments, or sit-
ting/movement instructions were provided to the participants during
the measurement period. Therefore, seventy office workers from a
professional call-centre company located in Dresden and Leipzig (Ger-
many) were recruited. Participants were required to speak German and
were excluded if they were pregnant, took glucocorticoids, or were
currently undergoing medical treatment for other physical complaints
besides back pain. All participants provided written informed consent
prior to participation in this study, which was conceptualised and
performed in accordance with the principals of the declaration of
Helsinki and was approved by the ethics committees of the University
Potsdam, Germany (no. 42/2014) and confirmed by the ethics com-
mission of ETH Zürich, Switzerland. After measurement completion, all
participants received 15 Euros compensation and were provided with
their individual study results.
2.2. Study environment
The call-centre environment offers a contemporary office work
setting with regard to job assignments and physical organisation. Our
selected call-centre specifically dealt with difficult and challenging
customer situations, and it was therefore assumed that participants
were exposed to a considerable mental stress burden (Johnson et al.,
2005; Oh et al., 2017). The employees' work tasks were highly stan-
dardised, comprising typing at a computer and calling clients using a
head-set, with nearly all duties undertaken in a sitting position. Since
the company's work policy required a change of workplace every 3 h, it
was not possible to ergonomically adjust the office desk and computer
set-up to the individual requirements and preferences.
2.3. Study design
This study was conducted within 2 weeks at two different worksites
of the call-centre company and each participant was assessed during
one complete working shift. In order to investigate the true relation-
ships between daily sitting behaviour and LBP, it was essential that the
measurements were based on each subjects' real-world performance in
the natural office environment, with participant's each using their own
office chair, undertaking their own daily office tasks. The company
provided three different office chair models, which all allowed adap-
tation of seat height and depth, as well as the option to fix the backrest
at a certain angle or allow dynamic reclination. After measurement
system set-up, data was collected for the entire working shift, including
breaks. At the end of the working day, calibration measurements for the
classification of the different sitting positions were performed. Similarly
to the preceding pilot study (Zemp et al., 2016a), participants were
asked to sit four times in seven predefined sitting positions: upright
(P1), reclined (P2), forward inclined (P3), laterally tilted right/left (P4/
P5), crossed legs right over left/left over right (P6/P7). Afterwards the
participants were asked to fill out the questionnaire (section 2.5).
2.4. Measurement systems
In order to assess sitting behaviour, spatio-temporal changes in the
distribution of pressure across the participants' sitting interface were
monitored by means of the textile pressure mat “sensomative science”
(sensomative GmbH, Rothenburg, Switzerland) consisting of a 196
(14 × 14) sensor matrix with a size of 45 cm × 45 cm (www.
sensomative.com). The pressure data were recorded at 1.5 Hz with a
resolution of 8 bits and a maximum pressure limit of 60 kPa. Using
Bluetooth Low Energy, the data were transferred from the textile mat to
a connected mobile phone (Nexus 5X, Google, LG, Seoul, Korea) where
the data were stored in the corresponding mobile phone application. In
order to prevent the mat from sliding, the system was laterally fixed
with two textile straps and belt loops (Fig. 1). Due to the pressure mats’
thin and flexible nature, participants were not able to feel its presence.
2.5. Questionnaires
In order to gather information about short- and long-term pain
status, including corresponding functional limitations, as well as so-
ciodemographic information, the following standardised questionnaires
were used:
2.5.1. Chronic Pain Grade questionnaire
To assess pain intensity and pain related functional limitations in
the previous three months, participants were requested to complete the
Chronic Pain Grade (CPG) questionnaire (Von Korff et al., 1992), which
is divided into two subscales: (1) Korff characteristic pain intensity
C. Bontrup, et al. Applied Ergonomics 81 (2019) 102894
2
3. (CPI) and (2) Korff disability (DISS). Each CPG item ranged from 0 (“no
pain/impairment”) to 10 (“worst possible pain”/“I wasn‘t able to do
anything”). For data analysis, items of each subscale were presented on
a scale ranging from 0 to 100. Missing or inconsistent data were treated
according to the CPG recommendations.
2.5.2. German brief pain inventory
The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) (Radbruch et al., 1999) was used to
estimate subjects’ acute LBP within the previous 24 h. Similar to the
CPG questionnaire, the BPI is subdivided into two subscales: (1) pain
severity (BPISeverity) and (2) pain-related interference (BPIInterfere) of
daily functions. Answering possibilities for the BPI ranged from 0 (“no
pain”/“no interference”) to 10 (“pain as bad as you can imagine”/“in-
terferes completely”) (Daut et al., 1983). The BPI also included a body
chart to illustrate each participant's pain area(s), which allowed con-
firmation (or otherwise) of pain in the lower back region. Missing or
inconsistent data were treated according to the BPI recommendations.
2.6. Data analysis
Data processing and analysis was performed similarly to the pilot
study of Zemp et al. (2016a), which is only briefly described below:
2.6.1. Low back pain
The four pain variables (CPI, DISS, BPISeverity, BPIInterfere) were used
to allocate participants into either subgroup A: no pain; no functional
disability, or into subgroup B: with pain; with functional disability.
Thereby, all participants with scores of 0 were allocated to subgroup A
and all participants with scores greater than 0 were assigned to sub-
group B.
2.6.2. Sitting position classification and validation
Raw pressure data were analysed using MATLAB (R2017a
MathWorks Inc., Natick, USA). The random forest classification ap-
proach was applied to determine the sitting position of each subject at
any instant during the entire working day (Zemp et al., 2016a, 2016b).
The calibration measurements of all participants were used to create
one general random forest classifier. Here, all pressure values of every
calibration measurement were normalised to the maximal value of the
196 sensors, and an ensemble of 500 decision trees was used while all
other parameters were kept at MATLAB's default levels.
In order to quantify the reliability of the sitting position classifier
within this study, a leave-one-out (LOO) cross-validation was per-
formed. Here, the calibration measurements of all participants except
one was used as training data and the remaining measurement was used
for validation. The classified sitting positions were then identified as
correct or incorrect. This procedure was repeated for every calibration
measurement in order to quantify the overall classification accuracy.
2.6.3. Participant sitting behaviour
In order to identify transient periods (when participants showed
small body movements or moved from one sitting posture to another),
firstly, raw pressure data were filtered using a zero-phase low-pass filter
(1st order Butterworth filter, cut-off frequency: 0.2 Hz). A threshold
value was then calculated for every participant, which was defined as
0.35% of the 93rd percentile of the pressure values throughout the
working day. Finally, if more than two-thirds of the loaded sensors
exhibited a higher differential in the pressure values from one time
point to the next than the defined threshold value, these time points
were considered as transient periods. In cases where the time between
two transient periods was shorter than 3 s, the two transient periods
were considered as one longer transient period. Remaining phases
without transient periods were defined as stable sitting. Using the
previously created random forest classifier, the specific sitting position
was calculated 1 s after the onset of a stable sitting period and allocated
to the whole stable period. In order to quantify sitting behaviour, four
parameters were defined:
N ˆ
move : Mean number of movements per working hour, characterised
by the number of transient periods during the whole working day
divided by the number of working hours
Nˆ
pos : Mean number of positional changes per working hour, cal-
culated as the number of sitting position changes during the whole
working day divided by the number of working hours
t ˆ
stable : Mean time period of stable sitting, characterised by the mean
length of stable sitting periods over the whole working day
P
transient: Percentage of transient periods during the whole working
period
2.6.4. Statistical analysis
Data management and statistical analysis were carried out using the
software suite IBM SPSS Statistics (v24, SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA). In
order to summarise the four sitting behaviour parameters (N ˆ
move , Nˆ
pos ,
t ˆ
stable , P
transient) to one general parameter (SitBePar), a Principal
Component Analysis (PCA) was conducted. Here, a FACTOR analysis
with the correlation matrix method was used to extract the principal
components, as well as to calculate SitBePar using a least squares re-
gression approach.
After verifying normally distributed data by means of the Shapiro-
Wilk-test, the influence of different characteristics of pain (CPI, DISS,
BPISeverity, BPIInterfere) on the overall sitting behaviour (SitBePar) was
analysed using two-tailed independent t-tests. In a second step, the
same tests were applied for the pain groupings with the lowest p-values
and for N ˆ
move , Nˆ
pos , t ˆ
stable , and P
transient in order to quantify the influ-
ence of the pain variables on the four individual sitting behaviour
parameters.
3. Results
3.1. Participants
This study included 70 call-centre employees, from which six par-
ticipants (8.6%) were excluded due to participation withdrawal (N = 2)
or incomplete data sets of the measured pressure distribution (N = 4),
resulting in a study sample of 64 participants (43 ± 13 years;
78 kg ± 21 kg; 170 cm ± 10 cm; 40 females). Furthermore, two sub-
jects could not be included for analysis of the CPI and BPISeverity due to
inconsistent and/or missing entries resulting in a total of 62 partici-
pants for the CPI and BPISeverity, and a total of 64 participants for the
DISS and BPIInterfere grouping variable.
3.2. Low back pain
The two subscales of the CPG and BPI questionnaires showed good
internal consistencies with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.92 (CPI), 0.92
(DISS), 0.94 (BPISeverity) and 0.92 (BPIInterfere). Overall, the majority of
participants reported some level of either chronic or acute back pain
Fig. 1. Textile pressure mat (sensomative science) fixed with two textile straps
and belt loops at the seat pan of an office chair.
C. Bontrup, et al. Applied Ergonomics 81 (2019) 102894
3
4. (N = 48, 75%), with an average low to medium pain intensity
(CPI = 39.49 ± 20.01; BPISeverity = 2.13 ± 1.73) and related dis-
ability (DISS = 28.75 ± 19.06; BPIInterfere = 2.22 ± 1.69). Moreover,
the findings indicated a large variability within all four pain groupings
(Table 1).
3.3. Sitting position classification and validation
Since most of the participants preferred to work with a fixed
backrest, the positions “upright” (P1) and “reclined” (P2) were con-
sidered as one and the same position. The random forest classifier de-
monstrated an overall classification accuracy of 90% (Table 2) ranging
from 70% up to 100% for the different participants.
3.4. Participant sitting behaviour
Participants worked on average 6.2 ± 1.5 h (range: 2.8–8.7 h),
which resulted in 397 h of data collection. SitBePar captured 74% of the
entire variance within the data and was therefore chosen to be the
overall representative sitting behaviour parameter. The corresponding
component loadings were 0.937 N
( ˆ )
move , 0.629 (Nˆ
pos ), −0.931 (t ˆ
stable ),
0.902 (P
transient), comprised almost equally of all four sitting behaviour
parameters except Nˆ
pos , which was weighted slightly lower.
The p-values and Cohen's effect size of the two-tailed independent t-
tests for SitBePar and the four grouping variables indicated that the
relationship between sitting behaviour and chronic pain grouping
variables (CPI: p = 0.052, d = 0.579; DISS: p = 0.076, d = 0.471) was
higher than the relationship between SitBePar and acute pain conditions
(BPISeverity: p = 0.625, d = 0.120; BPIInterfere: p = 0.253, d = 0.291).
Participants experiencing chronic LBP showed a lower overall per-
centage of transient periods (25.69 ± 11.69%) compared to pain-free
participants (35.23 ± 14.55%) indicating a moderate effect
(p = 0.011, d = 0.723). Similarly, a moderate effect (p = 0.036,
d = 0.544) was observed between participants who felt disabled due to
chronic LBP (DISS) (25.64 ± 12.28%) and corresponding non-disabled
counterparts (32.75 ± 13.81%) (Figs. 2 and 3; Appendix: Table A1).
A closer analysis of the mean values indicated that participants with
chronic pain and/or functional disability demonstrated less transient
periods (P
transient) and less movements per hour (Nmove), slightly fewer
position changes per hour (Nˆ
pos ), and longer time periods of stable
sitting (t ˆ
stable ) compared with corresponding counterparts (Figs. 2 and
3).
Mean values of almost all four sitting behaviour parameters for the
four pain groupings indicated that participants with pain and pain re-
lated disability demonstrated a rather static sitting behaviour compared
to their pain-free counterparts (Appendix: Table A1).
4. Discussion
This study aimed to analyse the relationships between sitting be-
haviour and LBP by investigating the sitting habits of call-centre
workers whose assignments were undertaken in an almost continuous
sitting position. We found a small association between general sitting
behaviour and participants reporting chronic LBP and/or pain related
functional disability. These observations over extended periods were
consistent with reported sitting activity over short periods (1hr), where
subjects also exhibited more frequent postural shifts than chronic LBP
workers (Akkarakittichoke and Janwantanakul, 2017). The lack of a
stronger relationship between LBP and sitting behaviour was most
likely due to the highly multifactorial causality of LBP, including socio-
psychological and physiological factors (Hoy et al., 2010). Another
reason could be the complex and largely individual sitting habits, which
are known to vary considerably among office workers (Goossens et al.,
2012; Zemp et al., 2016a), thereby producing inhomogeneity in sitting
behaviour.
Since almost all analysed sitting behaviour parameters for all pain
groupings showed more dynamic activity in pain free participants, this
study indicates a possible trend (0.011 < p < 0.453) towards a more
static sitting behaviour among the majority of participants perceiving
pain and/or suffering from pain related disability. These results are in
line with several studies showing that participants with LBP or lumbar
discomfort exhibit a more static sitting behaviour by demonstrating less
micro-movements and longer periods of uninterrupted sitting (Zemp
et al., 2016a; O'Keeffe et al., 2013; O'Sullivan et al., 2012b; Vergara and
Table 1
Overview of the two subgroups (participants with and without pain/pain-re-
lated disability).
A B
Number of participants Number of participants
Mean value ± SD
Range
CPI (N = 62) #16 (26.8%) #46 (74.2%)
39.49 ± 20.01
6.66–96.66
DISS (N = 64) #24 (37.5%) #40 (62.5%)
28.75 ± 19.06
3.33–70.00
BPISeverity (N = 62) #28 (45.2%) #34 (54.8%)
2.13 ± 1.73
0.25–7.00
BPIInterfere (N = 64) #30 (46.9%) #34 (53.1%)
2.22 ± 1.69
0.14–6.42
Based on the pain groupings, all participants were assigned to subgroup A if
they indicated no pain and/or disability (score = 0), or to subgroup B if they
indicated pain and/or disability (score > 0). The numbers of the participants
belonging to the different subgroups are marked with “#” (percentage of total
in brackets). For subgroup B, mean values ( ± SD) and the ranges regarding the
intensity of pain and disability are also provided.
Table 2
Leave-one-out cross-validation confusion matrix.
Classified sitting position Accuracy
P1/P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7
Actual Sitting Position P1/P2 98.0% 0.3% 0.3% 0.6% 0.3% 0.6% 98.0%
P3 6.9% 91.1% 1.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.0% 91.1%
P4 14.7% 1.5% 78.7% 0.0% 0.0% 5.1% 78.7%
P5 15.8% 2.5% 0.0% 76.7% 5.0% 0.0% 76.7%
P6 0.0% 0.0% 0.5% 2.4% 97.1% 0.0% 97.1%
P7 0.5% 0.0% 1.0% 0.0% 0.5% 98.1% 98.1%
Precision 87.7% 93.9% 95.5% 92.9% 96.2% 95.3%
Confusion matrix of the random forest classification algorithm with the actual sitting position shown in rows and the classified sitting positions in columns. The
correctly classified cases (diagonal elements) are marked in bold. The sitting positions analysed were: upright and reclined together (P1/P2), forward inclined (P3),
laterally tilted right/left (P4/P5), crossed legs right over left/left over right (P6/P7).
C. Bontrup, et al. Applied Ergonomics 81 (2019) 102894
4
5. Page, 2002; Womersley and May, 2006). A reasonable explanation for
this observation could be the so-called “fear-avoidance behaviour”
(Vlaeyen and Linton, 2000) meaning that, for instance, regular move-
ments or positional alternation are reduced or avoided due to fear of
experiencing pain (Vlaeyen et al., 2016).
In this study, a greater association between sitting behaviour and
LBP was found for participants in the chronic LBP and/or related dis-
ability grouping than for those with acute pain/disability. It is therefore
plausible that participants with chronic pain have a higher level of
awareness to pain-free sitting positions and pain provoking movements
compared to individuals affected by acute pain. Such an habitual
awareness could result in fewer transitions between sitting positions as
well as a reduction in small movements, indicating a type of avoidance
learning based on their pain history (Krypotos, 2015). A similar phe-
nomenon was reported by Panhale et al. (2016) who found a strong
correlation between fear-avoidance belief and activity limitation in
patients with chronic LBP; hence reflecting an underestimated impact
of fear avoidance beliefs on the patient‘s behaviour.
Overall, transient periods were lower in participants with chronic
LBP than pain free participants, indicating reduced movement
throughout their working day. Since less frequent postural shifts have
previously been observed among subjects with chronic LBP compared
to healthy participants (Akkarakittichoke and Janwantanakul, 2017), it
is likely that dominant drivers of sitting behaviour may exist that are
related to chronic LBP. Although these results do not allow any con-
clusions nor definite statements to be drawn regarding a possible causal
relationship or adaptational process among individuals with chronic
LBP, a more static sitting behaviour is generally known to have phy-
siological and biological consequences. Sustained pressure under the
buttocks due to prolonged, uninterrupted sitting could be reduced by
varying posture (Søndergaard et al., 2010; Vergara and Page, 2002;
Zemp et al., 2015, 2016c, 2019) by means of e.g. regular pelvis rota-
tions (van Geffen et al., 2008). Moreover, since continuous compression
on an intervertebral disc can result in reduced disc nutrition (Kingma
et al., 2000; Pynt et al., 2001) frequent postural movements are also
recommended through lordosis and kyphosis. In this manner, sufficient
metabolic balance of various musculoskeletal structures can be sup-
ported, including a reduction of ischaemic effects due to prolonged
static sitting (Reenalda et al., 2009; Todd et al., 2007).
O'Sullivan et al. (2013) defined dynamic sitting as “increased mo-
tion in sitting, which is facilitated by the use of specific chairs or
equipment”. However, recent studies have shown that dynamic chair
equipment is not sufficient to affect muscle activation, postures and
core kinematics (Ellegast et al., 2012; O'Sullivan et al., 2013; Grooten
et al., 2017; Kingma and van Dieën, 2009). Therefore, it can be con-
cluded that dynamic sitting should be actively stimulated, which can
then be supported by dynamic chair mechanisms, indicating the re-
quirement for a redefinition of dynamic sitting (Pynt, 2015). Such a
redefinition, however, would require valid information in terms of
movement patterns and positional changes that reflect a normal phy-
siological sitting behaviour, which has not yet been fully established.
In order to enhance a more dynamic sitting behaviour among office
employees, technical devices supporting dynamic sitting have recently
been discussed. Several studies (Haller et al., 2011; Goossens et al.,
2012; Davis and Kotowski, 2014) have demonstrated devices capable of
monitoring behaviour and providing feedback for avoiding discomfort
and musculoskeletal disorders at an early stage, with the aim to change
sitting patterns among office workers. However, Roossien et al. (2017)
reported that tactile feedback integrated into an office chair was unable
to change sitting behaviour, suggesting that such feedback is in-
sufficient for reducing musculoskeletal discomfort of office workers on
a sustained basis. Their study used feedback signals to improve sitting
duration in an “optimal supported posture”, instead of facilitating
regular small movements, for instance. Therefore, tactile input com-
bined with visual features may potentially promote more beneficial
sitting habits than either alone (Straker et al., 2013). The textile
Fig. 2. Bar and box plots of the four different sitting behaviour parameters for the grouping variable CPI (chronic pain intensity) with the corresponding t-test's p-
values and Cohen's effect sizes (d).
Fig. 3. Bar and box plots of the four different sitting behaviour parameters for the grouping variable DISS (chronic pain disability) with the corresponding t-test's p-
values and Cohen's effect sizes (d).
C. Bontrup, et al. Applied Ergonomics 81 (2019) 102894
5
6. pressure mat “sensomative science“ used in the presented study, in-
cludes a corresponding smart phone application providing visual
feedback of the current pressure distribution while sitting. Given fur-
ther development in the application, for instance by enabling regular
tactile or visual feedback to the user (smart phone or watch) to initiate
small movements, could have potential for more dynamic sitting be-
haviour in sedentary office workers.
4.1. Limitations and remarks
In the present study only one working shift per employee was
analysed, which might not comprehensively reflect the complete pat-
terns of sitting behaviour in each individual. Our study aimed to
achieve a general impression of sitting behaviour characteristics among
a sedentary population of office workers. Since call-centre work is
predominantly repetitive and inactive in nature (Thorp et al., 2012;
Toomingas et al., 2012; Straker et al., 2013), call-centre employees
were chosen as the focus group of our study. Indeed, observations
during the ongoing measurements indicated that 95% of the working
shift was indeed seated, except for scheduled breaks of 15–30 min
within a working day – data that is highly consistent with the ob-
servations of Toomingas et al. (2012). This regular schedule indicated
that our participants' work was not only highly sedentary, but also
largely equivalent among all workers, which reduced confounding ef-
fects. It is also important to consider that, contrary to ergonomic
guidelines, office tables and chairs were not ergonomically adjusted to
each individual since the company's structure required regular work-
place rotations within the office. To ensure ecological validity, the re-
searchers did not intervene with the provided chair/table placement or
rotation schedule. Nevertheless, the experimental setup including chair
instrumentation, providing study information as well as the presence of
the investigators could have altered the working routine.
From the results of our study, it seems that levels of LBP in call
centre employees are only partially linked to sitting behaviour itself,
and that the multifactorial nature of LBP is therefore possibly more
associated with sedentary lifestyle or other factors such as job tenure,
daily working hours, general fitness, customer reaction, and psycholo-
gical stress etc. When examining sitting behaviour and its relationship
with LBP, future studies should therefore consider these confounding
variables, as well as different levels of pain intensity on a more con-
tinual scale. Since our study mainly analysed participants exhibiting on
average low to medium back pain as well as pain related disability, such
a detailed classification was not included and should therefore be ad-
dressed in future studies. An alternative classification of individuals
with non-specific LBP can define subgroups similar to those presented
by O'Sullivan (2005), distinguishing between mechanically and non-
mechanically triggered pain. In this way, different pain drivers can be
considered when analysing the relationship between sitting behaviour
and LBP.
Due to the highly sedentary working conditions, call-centre em-
ployees are at particular risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders.
As a result, these population-related characteristics need to be carefully
considered when generalising these findings to the majority of office
workers.
5. Conclusion
With scientific discussion to date leading to unclear relationships
between sedentary lifestyle, sitting behaviour, and low back pain, we
have provided standardised (real-world) conditions to investigate
whether sitting behaviour and LBP are inherently linked. Our results
show a possible trend towards more static sitting behaviour among call-
centre workers with chronic LBP pain and pain related disability. A
greater association was found between sitting behaviour and chronic
LBP than for acute pain/disability, which was a possible result of the
fact that participants with chronic pain have a higher level of awareness
to pain-free sitting positions and pain provoking movements compared
to individuals affected by acute pain.
Appendix
Table A1
Descriptive statistics of the different parameter of sitting behaviour (SitBePar, N ˆ ,
move Nˆ
pos , t ˆ
stable , P
transient) of the four pain groupings (CPI, DISS, BPISeverity,
BPIInterfere).
Parameter Subgroups Mean SD Min Max
CPI SitBePar A: CPI = 0 0.40 0.92 −1.90 1.73
B: CPI > 0 −0.15 0.98 −2.99 1.91
N ˆ
move [h−1
] A: CPI = 0 97.68 22.14 46.19 127.39
B: CPI > 0 88.28 23.36 29.91 127.25
Nˆ
pos [h−1
] A: CPI = 0 12.58 6.12 1.10 20.07
B: CPI > 0 10.47 6.87 1.51 30.63
t ˆ
stable [s] A: CPI = 0 26.59 14.27 11.77 69.68
B: CPI > 0 34.75 18.76 12.19 112.44
Ptransient [%] A: CPI = 0 35.23 14.55 10.60 65.30
B: CPI > 0 25.69 11.69 6.59 56.90
DISS SitBePar A: DISS = 0 0.28 0.85 −1.90 1.73
B: DISS > 0 −0.17 1.05 −2.99 1.91
N ˆ
move [h−1
] A: DISS = 0 96.47 20.53 46.19 127.39
B: DISS > 0 88.23 24.88 29.91 134.49
Nˆ
pos [h−1
] A: DISS = 0 11.76 5.93 1.10 20.07
B: DISS > 0 10.46 7.08 1.51 30.63
t ˆ
stable [s] A: DISS = 0 27.38 12.54 11.77 69.68
B: DISS > 0 35.38 19.92 12.19 112.44
Ptransient [%] A: DISS = 0 32.75 13.81 10.60 65.30
B: DISS > 0 25.64 12.28 6.59 56.90
(continued on next page)
C. Bontrup, et al. Applied Ergonomics 81 (2019) 102894
6
7. Table A1 (continued)
Parameter Subgroups Mean SD Min Max
BPISeverity SitBePar A: BPISeverity = 0 0.03 1.03 −2.99 1.73
B: BPISeverity > 0 −0.09 0.97 −2.12 1.91
N ˆ
move [h−1
] A: BPISeverity = 0 90.66 23.88 29.91 127.39
B: BPISeverity > 0 90.76 23.81 39.03 134.49
Nˆ
pos [h−1
] A: BPISeverity = 0 11.35 5.78 1.10 20.07
B: BPISeverity > 0 9.77 6.44 1.51 23.88
t ˆ
stable [s] A: BPISeverity = 0 32.53 20.26 11.77 112.44
B: BPISeverity > 0 32.99 16.18 12.19 82.88
Ptransient [%] A: BPISeverity = 0 29.56 13.82 6.59 65.30
B: BPISeverity > 0 26.64 12.73 10.15 56.90
BPIInterfere SitBePar A: BPIInterfere = 0 0.15 1.07 −2.99 1.91
B: BPIInterfere > 0 −0.14 0.92 −2.12 1.53
N ˆ
move [h−1
] A: BPIInterfere = 0 93.33 24.02 29.91 127.39
B: BPIInterfere > 0 89.55 23.28 39.03 134.49
Nˆ
pos [h−1
] A: BPIInterfere = 0 12.57 6.23 3.18 23.88
B: BPIInterfere > 0 9.51 6.77 1.10 31.63
t ˆ
stable [s] A: BPIInterfere = 0 31.13 19.79 11.77 112.44
B: BPIInterfere > 0 33.48 16.16 13.39 82.88
Ptransient [%] A: BPIInterfere = 0 30.55 13.89 6.59 65.30
B: BPIInterfere > 0 26.32 12.48 10.15 49.99
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