Sharing the load
Healthcare workers can often be at risk of musculoskeletal injuries because of the physical aspects of their roles. A new study has examined whether passive exoskeletons could help to protect their wellbeing while they’re at work and reduce pain and discomfort.
‘BionicBack’ devices were given to 17 healthcare professionals at a hospital during a two-month trial. Researchers recorded how long they wore them for and feedback on factors such as usability, support and comfort. All the participants found the exoskeleton easy to use and they mostly wore it for specific tasks, such lifting or moving patients.
However, they reported varying levels of support and comfort, with some claiming it improved their posture while others said it restricted movement.
The study, published in the journal Applied Ergonomics, said: “Overall, the exoskeleton was considered a potentially useful tool for planned lifting and repositioning tasks but was deemed less suitable for emergency situations or tasks requiring high mobility.
“Participants also emphasised the importance of training and guidance to prevent incorrect posture or compensatory movements that could lead to discomfort or strain,”
It added: “These results suggest that exoskeletons may be a useful ergonomic tool for selected tasks but require further refinement and targeted implementation to maximise their effectiveness in clinical practice.”
