Comparison of Spinal Loads in Kneeling and Standing Postures during Manual Materials Handling

Abstract

Kneeling in a restricted posture during manual materials handling has been associated with increased risk of low back pain. Little is known about the effect of kneeling posture on spinal loads. The purpose of this study was to compare differences in spinal loading between kneeling and standing postures for lifting tasks. Twelve subjects asymmetrically lifted luggage of three weights to three heights from floor while kneeling. Three subjects also performed the same tasks from waist height while standing. An adapted free-dynamic EMG-assisted biomechanical model was used to calculate spinal loads. Statistical analysis showed that there was no difference in compression between kneeling and standing (p=0.9605), but kneeling resulted in increased anterior-posterior and lateral shear forces on the lumbar spine (p =0.0002 and p<0.0001, respectively). Spinal loading changes while kneeling in a restricted posture may increase the risk of low back injury and must be considered in ergonomic job design.

Diaphragmatic breathing exercises in recovery from fatigue-induced changes in spinal mobility and postural stability: a study protocol

“…Increased intraabdominal pressure reduces spine compression force (Kwon et al, 2021). This could play an important role in spinal mobility (Yang et al, 2005). Raising intra-abdominal pressure can also activate the pelvic floor and abdominal wall muscles that improve inferior stability and posterior and anterolateral stability (Rasheed et al, 2021).…”

“…The decreased muscle contractile efficiency and limited capacity of the nervous system can increase articular structural stiffness, and delay muscle response time (Hamaoui et al, 2004). Thus, spinal loading decreases which plays an important role in the mobility of the spine (Yang et al, 2005).…”