Exploring the role of task constraints on motor variability and assessing consistency in individual responses during repetitive lifting using linear variability of kinematics

Abstract

To better understand the assessment of motor variability (MV) in an occupational context, this study determined the role of task constraints on MV and consistency in individual MV responses. Twenty participants performed repetitive lifting under four constraints differing in restriction of foot movement and load weight. MV was assessed for three body regions and for the whole-body using linear variability of three-dimensional joint angles. Foot movement caused significant increases of lower body (11–17%), low back (318–439%) and a reduction in upper body variability (4%), whereas no effects of weight nor interaction of foot restriction and weight were found. Good individual consistency (ICC = 0.71–0.84) was demonstrated across constraints. Even though MV is affected by constraints, this study supports that MV is largely an individual trait independent of constraints. Future work should evaluate if MV remains an individual trait across different tasks, and if MV is confounded by other task constraints.