Ergonomic Training Research Articles

Real needle for minimal invasive procedures training using motion sensors and optical flow

Minimally invasive percutaneous insertion procedures are widely used techniques in medicine. Their success is highly dependent on the skills of the practitioner. This paper presents a haptic simulator for training in these procedures, whose key component is a real percutaneous insertion needle with a sensory system incorporated to track its 3D location at every instant.By means of the proposed embedded vision system, the attitude (spatial orientation) and depth of insertion of a real needle are estimated. The proposal is founded on a novel depth estimation procedure based on optical flow techniques, complemented by sensory fusion techniques with the attitude calculated with data from an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor. This procedure allows estimating the needle attitude with an accuracy of tenths of a degree and the displacement with an accuracy of millimeters. The computational algorithm runs on an embedded computer with real-time constraints for tracking the movement of a real needle. This haptic needle location data is used to reproduce the movement of a virtual needle within a simulation app.As a fundamental result, an ergonomic and realistic training simulator has been successfully constructed for healthcare professionals to acquire the mental model and motor skills necessary to practice percutaneous procedures successfully.

A quantitative study on the impact of educational modules on the awareness of postural ergonomics among the dental clinical trainees of Jouf University: A North Saudi Arabian Cohort

This research aimed to evaluate the difference between self-reported and actual work postures among dental clinical trainees and the effect of health education on their ergonomic postures. Bad postures induce fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, errors, a negative attitude, and job dissatisfaction. It is necessary to evaluate the awareness of posture ergonomics among clinical trainees as the bad postures captured during their learning years transform into habits that could affect future productivity. Hence, a three-level quantitative study was conducted among the dental trainees at Jouf University, Saudi Arabia. The first level comprised a self-reported survey and an observational study to record the working postures of the participants. At the second level, appropriate health education is customized based on the findings observed at the first level. An unannounced observational study was conducted at the third level to assess the impact of ergonomic education on the working postures of the participants. Gender and the academic year level of the participants were the variables considered in the study. The study found that the participants overrated their correct postures (P = 0.005). Fortunately, the final post-ergonomic education observations found a significant improvement in work posture (8.6 vs 12.4), regardless of the variables considered in the study (P = 0.001). The three best correct postures were placing the feet resting on the floor (52.6 vs 92.8 %), using the seat of a dental chair (57.9 vs 89.5 %), and using an upright position of the legs at the thigh-to-leg angle (53.9 % vs 86.2 %). Therefore, the study emphasizes the importance of training in ergonomics and regular, periodic observation to eradicate bad postures before they become a habit among young dentists.

Prevalence and symptomatology of musculoskeletal disorders in dentists with a focus on ergonomics and self-care

Research highlights the growing importance of occupational health, noting that work-related illnesses are becoming increasingly prevalent as global populations age and work longer.The study focuses on occupational musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental professionals, particularly those who graduated from the Regional Autonomous University of the Andes (UNIANDES). Its aim is to assess the prevalence and contributing factors to MSDs, promoting ergonomic practices to mitigate these issues.The study employed a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional approach, using the Nordic Questionnaire to collect data. Participants were surveyed on demographic and occupational variables, and the results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. It revealed that female dentists and those between 20 and 30 years old are particularly susceptible to these disorders.Many respondents indicated that their symptoms led to changes in their work habits or even job changes. The duration and impact of these symptoms varied, with some reporting chronic problems that affect their ability to work.The research underscores the need to improve ergonomic training and practices in dental education and professional settings. It suggests adopting preventive measures, such as ergonomic workstations, regular breaks, and physical exercises, to reduce the incidence of these conditions

A comparison between the lecture and self-study methods on female students' awareness and attitudes about text neck syndrome.

Text Neck Syndrome (TNS) is a common issue in the neck. The emergence of such issues makes it more pressing to offer ergonomic training to prevent their consequences. The present study aimed to compare training through the lecture and Self-Study methods awareness and attitudes about the TNS. The study was conducted on 94 female high-school students in 2021, and a quasi-experimental methodology was implemented. The participants were randomly divided into a lecture method and a self-study group. A researcher-made questionnaire was utilized for data collection to measure the participants' attitudes and awareness. The data were analyzed according to descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings showed that the mean post-test scores of the participants' awareness in the lecture method and self-study groups were 8.74 and 5.83, respectively, and a significant increase was observed in the post-test scores of the lecture method group. However, no significant difference was observed between the pre-test and post-test attitude scores of the two groups. As training by the use of the lecture method in a webinar format has the characteristics of a traditional and online educational simultaneously, it offers an advantage that can be utilized in educational institutions as a complementary (or even an independent) method. Moreover, the experts in medical informational sciences need to accompany training groups as they are responsible to select and prepare credible content materials for audiences.

The Need for Ergonomics Training in Interventional Pulmonary Fellowship.

The Need for Ergonomics Training in Interventional Pulmonary Fellowship.

Sonographers and Vascular Technologists Offer Potential Solutions to Promote the Health and Well-being of Their Workforce

Objective: Work-related injuries have a major effect on worker health and well-being. This is particularly true in sonography, where work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are common. In response to the current challenge of understanding strategy implementation across social and organizational dimensions, this research captured sonographers’, echocardiographers’, and vascular technologists’ perceptions of critical administrative, organizational, and general health and training challenges, and potential solutions for improving worker health and well-being. Materials and Methods: A survey invitation was sent to the WRMSD Grand Challenge longitudinal study registry participants. Open-ended questions on the online questionnaire allowed respondents to share comments, ideas, or potential solutions to improve worker health and well-being regarding the administrative and organizational environment or through training and general health interventions. There were 377 free-text responses that were qualitatively analyzed using a grounded theory approach to generate overarching themes and identify emerging theory, supported by initial coding, focused coding, and reflexive memoing. A member check was conducted by interviewing four participants to refine and confirm the findings. Results: Five themes were identified: “Limits and Guidelines,” “Injury Education,” “Ergonomics Training Constraints,” “Resources and Equipment,” and “Individual Habits.” Participant suggestions within these themes were categorized and mapped onto a sociotechnical systems model that was developed previously to study the healthcare system(s) in which sonography users work. This conceptual mapping revealed how these solutions were situated to impact different levels of the work environment. The themes and mapping supported an emerging grounded theory: Risk Reduction Relies on Proper Employee Representation. Conclusion: These qualitative findings align with contemporary guidelines and recommendations for mitigating injuries in sonographers, illuminating challenges and solutions targeting levels of influence beyond the staff sonographers’ scope. The need for representation of sonographers at higher-level administrative levels has not heretofore been addressed by WRMSD guidelines.

Prevalence of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Its association with Knee Stiffness in Sanitary Workers

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is an overuse injury that causes pain in the front of knee and it’s more common in females. Heavy workload and consistent stress on knee especially in labour work is also affecting male population with this syndrome. It can affect quality of life by limiting functions and it has long term effects. Objective: To determine the prevalence of patellofemoral pain syndrome in sanitary workers who are facing knee stiffness or knee pain. Methods: A sample of 128 participants of age 30-50 years of sanitary workers was included for the survey, according to inclusion criteria. For the selection of participants, convenience sampling was used. Pendulum test, Patellar grind test, and Knee Injury and osteoarthritis outcome score survey for symptoms and pain were used to collect data. An informed consent was signed by the participants stating that personal information of participants is confidential. Results: SPSS version 22 was used to define the descriptive and associated analysis of data. Results showed that there is association between Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score symptoms and patellar grind test (p>.0001) while there is no association between knee outcome score pain sign and pendulum test (p=.482). 259 participants reported 71% overall prevalence of patellofemoral pain. Conclusions: It is concluded that male sanitary workers had high prevalence levels of Patellofemoral pain. Preventative measures such as ergonomics training, physical activity should be taken into consideration to enhance quality of life.

High Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Dental Professionals: A Study on Ergonomics and Workload in Yemen.

BACKGROUND Dentists frequently have work-related musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) diseases, which are the profession's second most common cause of disability. Awareness of dental ergonomics is necessary for controlling MSDs associated with dental workload. Dental professionals need additional training in dental ergonomics to reduce serious complications associated with dental workload. This questionnaire-based study aimed to evaluate the understanding of physical ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorders in 310 dental health professionals and students in Yemen. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 dental professionals working in various clinics and universities in Sana'a City, Yemen. They received a self-administered questionnaire that was developed from earlier studies. Five sections made up the questionnaire. The first section of the survey included questions about sex, age, and clinical professions; the second section focused on ergonomic awareness; the third section asked about work conditions; the fourth section asked about the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders; and the fifth section asked about interventions used. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, and a P value of ≤0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Only 310 questionnaires were completed. The participants'; level of understanding of ergonomics was low. One-way ANOVA showed a significant portion of respondents reported having MSDs, and they frequently reported pain related to workload. The neck, lower back, upper back, and shoulders experienced the highest levels of pain. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of MSDs was high among dental professionals, especially in the lower back, upper back, and shoulder. This necessitates preventive measures like ergonomic positions, ergonomic equipment, regular exercise, and work breaks.

Assessment of musculoskeletal pain and surgical ergonomic parameters among members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology

ObjectivesTo assess rates of self-reported work-related pain and knowledge of ergonomic principles among fellowship trained pediatric otolaryngologists within the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO). We hypothesized that pediatric otolaryngologists experience rates of musculoskeletal pain and injury similar to what has been reported among adult otolaryngologists and other surgical subspecialties. MethodsAn IRB-approved survey was distributed to members of ASPO through email listserv. Collected variables included surgeon demographic information, practice settings, surgical volume, procedure types, work-related musculoskeletal pain-related metrics, modifying factors, and knowledge/attitudes on surgical ergonomics. ResultsA total of 685 ASPO members were approached via email, of which 435 opened the survey email and 118 attending pediatric otolaryngologists completed the survey (response rate 27%). In all, 78% of respondents reported current or prior pain and/or injury attributed to performing surgery, 20% higher than that reported in the previous ergonomics survey of ASPO members in 2012. The most affected areas were neck/cervical spine (63%), shoulders/arms (44%), lower back/lumbar spine (36%), and hands/wrist (31%). Half of the respondents were diagnosed with musculoskeletal condition(s) attributed to performing surgery. Two-thirds required treatment (62% pharmacologic only, 9% pharmacologic and surgical intervention) for their work-related pain. Leveraging intermittent pauses during surgical procedures to adjust body position was the most reported method of addressing pain in the operating room. Only 21% report ever having received ergonomic training during their training or career. ConclusionMusculoskeletal pain associated with performing pediatric otolaryngology procedures is highly prevalent and has not attenuated despite increased awareness of surgical ergonomics. Results from this study underscore the need to develop standardized surgical ergonomics curricula for pediatric otolaryngologists and trainees.

9485 High Prevalence of Occupational Musculoskeletal Injuries and Interest in Surgical Ergonomics Training Among OB/GYN Surgeons

9485 High Prevalence of Occupational Musculoskeletal Injuries and Interest in Surgical Ergonomics Training Among OB/GYN Surgeons

Carpal tunnel syndrome and its associated factors among computer user bankers in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021: a cross sectional study

IntroductionThe use of information devices like computers is skyrocketed in recent years, leading injuries. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a leading cause of upper extremity MSDs specially to banking workers. Hence, this paper was intended to highlight its magnitude associated factors in the study area.Methods and materialsInstitutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 13, 2021 to October 09, 2021. A total of 422 private and government owned computer user bankers were participated. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected using Durkan’s compression test, flexion and compression test, Phalen’s test, and Tinel’s test. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to investigate the relationship between predictors and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. P-value less than 0.05 was considered to declare as a significant and Adjusted Odds Ration for strength association between risk factors and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.ResultAmong 422 participants, the annual prevalence of CTS was 11.7%. Being smoker [AOR: 4.2; 95% CI: 1.76–10.26], having > 5-year work experience [AOR: 7.98; 95% CI: 3.7-17.33], movement repetition [AOR: 3.9; 95% CI: 1.66–9.4] and lack of ergonomics training [AOR: 5.2; 95% CI: 2.8–9.5] were independently associated risk factors to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.ConclusionCarpal Tunnel Syndrome was high (11.7%) among bankers in this study area. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome was predicted by smoking, length of employment, movement repetition, and not received ergonomics training. Therefore, fore the banking industry, it would be better to maintain strict follow-up and provision of ergonomics training.

Sex differences impact ergonomic endoscopic training for gastroenterology fellows

Background and AimsEndoscopic related injuries (ERI) for gastroenterologists are common and can impact longevity of an endoscopic career. This study examines sex differences in the prevalence of ERIs and ergonomic training during gastroenterology (GI) fellowship. MethodsA 56-item anonymous survey was sent to 709 general and advanced endoscopy GI fellows at 73 United States (US) training programs between May and June 2022. Demographic information was collected along with questions related to endoscopic environment, ergonomic instruction, technique, equipment availability, and ergonomic knowledge. Responses of female and male GI fellows were compared using Chi-square and Fisher exact tests. ResultsOf the 236 respondents (response rate 33.9%), 113 (44.5%) were female and 123 (52.1%) were male. Female fellows reported on average smaller hand sizes and shorter heights. More female fellows reported endoscopic equipment was not ergonomically optimized for their use. Additionally, more female fellows voiced preference for same gender teachers and access to dial extenders and well-fitting lead aprons. High rates of post-endoscopy pain were reported by both sexes, with significantly more females experiencing neck and shoulder pain. Trainees of both sexes demonstrated poor ergonomic awareness with an average score of 68% on 5-point knowledge-based assessment. ConclusionPhysical differences exist between male and female trainees, and current endoscopic equipment may not be optimized for smaller hand sizes. This study highlights the urgent need for formal ergonomic training for trainees and trainers with consideration of stature and hand size to enhance safety, comfort, and equity in the training and practice of endoscopy.

S1759 Implementation and Evaluation of a Curriculum for Ergonomics Training During GI Fellowship

S1759 Implementation and Evaluation of a Curriculum for Ergonomics Training During GI Fellowship

VR-RET: A Virtual Reality–Based Approach for Real-Time Ergonomics Training on Industrialized Construction Tasks

VR-RET: A Virtual Reality–Based Approach for Real-Time Ergonomics Training on Industrialized Construction Tasks

Robotic-Assisted Surgery Training (RAST): Assessment of Surgeon Console Ergonomic Skills

The aim of this study was to evaluate the responsiveness of postgraduate year (PGY) general surgery residents (GSRs) to surgeon console ergonomics within the robotic-assisted surgery training (RAST) program. This was a prospective educational study. GSRs were prepared with a pretraining educational video. Faculty provided one-on-one resident hands-on training and testing. Nine proficiency criteria (emergency stop & recover; left side pod adjustments; touchpad controls; footswitch panel; energy control pedals; camera control & focus; arm swap; master & finger clutch; dual console settings control) were assessed with a 5-point Likert-scale. Responsiveness was defined as change in performance over time. The robotic platform was Da Vinci Xi (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA). The Dundee ready educational environment measure (DREEM) inventory was used by GSRs to assess the educational environment. Tertiary care academic teaching institution. A total of 22 GSRs: 4 PGY 1, 4 PGY 2, 4 PGY 3, 5 PGY 4, 5 PGY 5. From June 2022 to March 2023 the hands-on console time decreased at testing when compared to baseline: median 39.0 (range 37-41) vs 20.1 (range 19-22) minutes, respectively. There was no difference in mean hands-on testing scores stratified by PGY: 4.85±0.4 PGY1; 4.98 ± 0.3 PGY2; 4.86 ± 0.4 PGY3, 4.88 ± 0.2 PGY4, and 4.91 ± 0.1 PGY5 (ANOVA test; p = 0.095). The overall DREEM score was 167.1 ± 16.9 with CAC = 0.908 (excellent internal consistency). Training in ergonomics on the surgeon console impacted the responsiveness of the GSRs with 51% console time reduction. There were no differences in hands-on testing scores among PGYs. Perception of the educational environment by the GSRs was high.

The Effect of Ergonomic Training on Body Awarness, Posture and Quality of Life in Laborer

Bu çalışmanın amacı yük taşıyan işçilerde ergonomi eğitimin vücut farkındalığı, postür ve yaşam kalitesi üzerine etkisini araştırmaktır. Çalışmaya katılan kişiler basit randomizasyon yöntemi ile deney (n=10) ve kontrol grubu (n=10) olarak ayrıldı. Deney grubuna doğru pozisyonda yük kaldırma eğitimi 1 sefer olmak üzere seminer şeklinde verildi. Kontrol grubuna ise eğitim verilmedi. Çalışmaya alınan bireylere vücut farkındalığı için Vücut Farkındalık Anketi (VFA), postür değerlendirmesi için New York Postür Analizi Yöntemi (NYPAY) ve yaşam kalitesi değerlendirmesi için SF-36 Yaşam Kalitesi Ölçeği uygulandı. Cornell Kas iskelet sistemi rahatsızlığı taraması anketi (CKİSRA) ile kas iskelet sistemi rahatsızlıklarını değerlendirildi. Değerlendirmeler eğitim öncesi ve eğitimden 45 gün geçtikten sonra tekrar edildi. Her iki grupta da vücut farkındalığında anlamlı bir değişiklik görülmedi (p>0,05). Postür analizi bulgularına göre eğitim öncesi ile eğitim sonrası deney grubunda anlamlı düzeyde farklılık görüldü (p

Investigation of the multi-component ergonomics intervention effects on improving musculoskeletal outcomes and speech communication: A case study in open-plan offices.

Office workers are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) due to improper workstations. Open-plan bank office employees must communicate with bank clerks properly and perform financial activity precisely, but noise is a factor that disrupts their communication. Therefore, MSS and annoying noise are two of the main problems in open-plan offices. This study evaluated the effects of a multi-component intervention involving individual (employee ergonomics training) and physical (improvements in workstation design and work environment) ergonomic factors on musculoskeletal outcomes and speech communication in open-plan environments. A preliminary survey was carried out to investigate the overall ergonomics problems, the tasks and time analysis, workstations setup, the prevalence of MSS (Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire), physical discomfort (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS]), and posture (assessed by Rapid Upper Limb Assessment [RULA] method), environmental status (measurement of noise), and speech intelligibility (assessed by Speech Interference Level [SIL] method based on ISO 9921). The multi-component interventions were performed afterward based on the data collected. A baseline assessment and a 9-month follow-up assessment were conducted. The results showed a significant decrease in the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (shoulders, elbows, and low back), physical discomfort, and awkward working postures after the intervention. A considerable improvement was also found in speech intelligibility post-intervention. The post-intervention questionnaire survey also indicated that employees generally favored the redesigned workstations. The results support the effectiveness of implementing multi-component interventions in open-plan bank offices to improve musculoskeletal complaints and speech communication.

Distúrbios osteomusculares relacionados ao ambiente de trabalho no setor abate em um frigorífico

Introduction: Meat processing plants play a fundamental role in the processing and slaughtering of animals, and the working environment in these establishments has specific characteristics that can affect the health and well-being of workers. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze musculoskeletal disorders related to the working environment in the slaughtering sector of a specific slaughterhouse. The main ergonomic risk factors and their association with the occurrence of these disorders will be investigated. Methodology: This is a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive study, which analyzed ergonomic risks in the slaughter sector, using a structured questionnaire. The sample consisted of 49 employees in the slaughter sector of a meatpacking plant in Minas Gerais. As a research instrument, the "Nordic Musculoskeletal Symptoms" questionnaire was applied from May 22 to 26, 2023, based on an analysis of the employees' intense routine Results: The results of this study reveal a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among slaughterhouse workers. The most affected body regions include the cervical region, shoulders, arms, forearms, wrists, hands, fingers, dorsal region, lumbar region and hips/lower limbs. Conclusion: In conclusion, the results of this study highlight the worrying prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among slaughterhouse workers. The incidence of pain in the various body regions analyzed highlights the need to implement preventive and intervention measures, such as ergonomic strategies, ergonomic training and postural support, in order to reduce the impact of these disorders on workers' health and well-being.

Investigating the impact of ergonomics training in reducing musculoskeletal discomfort among office workers

Introduction: Office workers, regardless of educational principles, may be exposed to musculoskeletal injuries due to the nature of their work. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of ergonomics training in reducing musculoskeletal disorders among the administrative staff of an Ilam University of Medical Sciences campus.
 Materials and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 178 administrative staff of Ilam University of Medical Sciences Campus 1 was examined. Musculoskeletal disorders were evaluated using the Nordic questionnaire. Ergonomic risk factors of the workplace were assessed by Rapid Administrative Strain Assessment (ROSA) before and after the training. Data analysis was done through SPSS version 26 statistical software.
 Results: According to the findings obtained from the Nordic questionnaire, it was found that the most disorders in the past year were in the back (56.2%) and neck (55.6%) areas and the ROSA evaluation results showed that 24.4% of the subjects the study was at the ergonomic level with high risk. After the implementation of training programs, the results showed that the prevalence of disorders in 9 areas decreased. Also, demographic variables did not have a significant effect on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. (Significance level 0/05 is assumed)
 Conclusion: The results of this study showed that ergonomic training can be an effective method to reduce musculoskeletal discomfort in office work environments.

Low Back Pain and Its Risk Factors Among Nurses Working in East Bale, Bale, and West Arsi Zone Government Hospitals, Oromia Region, South East Ethiopia, 2021 -Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study.

Hospital nursing staff are particularly susceptible to low back pain (LBP) a widespread health issue worldwide. There was little available data on the prevalence of LBP and risk factors related to it in this population. Assessed the prevalence of LBP and risk factors in nurses working in South-East Ethiopia's Oromia region in the East Bale, Bale, and West Arsi zone government hospitals. A cross-sectional study was carried out within an institution in the East Bale, Bale, and West Arsi zone government hospitals; 440 nurses were chosen to use a process of systematic random sampling, and data was gathered between June 1 and July 30, 2021. Using pre-designed questionnaires, I interrogated participants. After being verified as complete, the gathered data was entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Bi variate and multivariate logistic regressions with 95% confidence intervals and crude and adjusted odd ratios were generated and interpreted as necessary. To deem a result statistically significant, a p-value of 0.05 or lower was required. A total of 427 nurses engaged in the interview out of the 440 participants that wanted to take part in the study, yielding a response rate of 97.1%. Low back pain was 42.6% more common over a year [95% CI: (0.384, 0.476)]. According to the multivariate analysis, females [AOR = 1.791; 95% CI: (1.121, 2.861)], age higher than forty [AOR=2.388, 95% CI: (1.315, 4.337)], age grouped 31-40 years [(AOR=2.064, 95% CI: 1.233, 3.455)], divorced [(AOR=10.288, 95% CI: (3.063, 34.553)], married [(AOR=1.676 (1.675, 16.999)]. The study suggests that implementing preventive measures and offering ergonomic training can help reduce LBP among nurses in these hospitals.