The effect of an ergonomic computer device on muscle activity of the upper trapezius muscle during typing

Objective: Investigate whether an ergonomic computer device, characterised by an inclined working area and keyboard localisation close to the screen (the Up-Line), decreases the muscle activity of the upper trapezius muscle. Methods: In a crossover design 19 healthy subjects and 19 patients with Whi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Applied ergonomics 2003-03, Vol.34 (2), p.125-130
Main Authors: Tepper, M, Vollenbroek-Hutten, M.M.R, Hermens, H.J, Baten, C.T.M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Applied physiology
Back - physiopathology
Biological and medical sciences
Computer peripherals
Computer Terminals
Effects
Electromyography
Ergonomic device
Ergonomics
Ergonomics. Work place. Occupational physiology
Female
Human physiology applied to population studies and life conditions. Human ecophysiology
Humans
Male
Medical sciences
Muscular system
Neck Muscles - physiopathology
Occupational rehabilitation
Posture
Whiplash Injuries - physiopathology
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Summary:Objective: Investigate whether an ergonomic computer device, characterised by an inclined working area and keyboard localisation close to the screen (the Up-Line), decreases the muscle activity of the upper trapezius muscle. Methods: In a crossover design 19 healthy subjects and 19 patients with Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) typed during 10 min at the Up-Line and at a standard workstation with 15 min of rest in between. During typing surface EMG was measured of the trapezius muscle. The subjects were asked to rate sitting comfort and complaints. Results: Although most subjects subjectively preferred the Up-Line, on average no significant differences were found in muscle activity between the two workstations for both patients and healthy subjects. Individually in 5 healthy subjects (25%) and in 6 patients (31%) muscle activity was lower when working at the Up-Line. Conclusion: Although some subjects subjectively prefer the Up-Line in sitting comfort, on average the Up-Line did not decrease the muscle activity, both in healthy subjects as in patients with WAD.
ISSN:0003-6870
1872-9126
DOI:10.1016/S0003-6870(02)00145-X