Biomechanical shoulder loads and postures in light automotive assembly workers: Comparison between shoulder pain/no pain groups

Abstract

Background: The number of workplace shoulder compensation claims resulting from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) has decreased slightly in recent years, however the median number of days off work remains unchanged, which suggests an increase in injury severity. Little information is available regarding cumulative shoulder exposures, and there is no information on their impact on shoulder pain.

Methods: Seventy-nine automotive seat frame assembly workers completed a questionnaire about the prevalence and severity of shoulder pain and were videotaped performing assembly tasks. 3DMatch, a posture-matching software program, was used to calculate the peak and cumulative shoulder moments and forces by matching postures seen in the video with predetermined ranges of posture to be used in the biomechanical model.

Results: Of the 45.6% who reported shoulder pain, there was a mild correlation of pain severity with posterior shear of the shoulder. There were no significant differences in peak loads between Pain and No Pain groups; however, the No Pain group experienced significantly more cumulative caudal shear.

Conclusion: Although there was no difference in percent time spent in different flexed postures between pain groups, those working some jobs may be at an increased risk of developing MSDs based on the amount of time spent in flexed postures, as well as the peak flexion moment acting on the shoulder.