Sitting posture alerting system for pain in back and neck region

Abstract

Generally people at workplaces have a risk of developing a range of disorders to muscles, nerves, joints and lower back. These disorders result from a range of factors which can be classified into individual, psychosocial and physical factors. Physical load of work is evaluated by analyzing body movement and body posture. Observational and instrument based techniques are used to measure the degree of discomfort and postural strain caused by different body positions. The angular departure of a body segment from its neutral position is gained through visual perception (observational technique). Body positions recorded continuously are acquired using a device attached to a person (instrument based technique). There are various observational based techniques and each of them have a significance in their own field. Each and every technique has its own posture classification; therefore, every posture is assigned a set of positional load rates. Some of the commonly adopted observational techniques are: Ovako Working Posture Assessment System (OWAS), Posture, Activity, Tools and Handling (PATH), Quick Exposure Check (QEC), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Strain Index (SI), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) etc. Many programs have been setup in order to prevent or reduce the risks of developing disorders caused due to improper posture. In order to achieve the best possible results, these programs must rely on the principles based on ergonomics followed by a proper examination and analysis of various work-related elements. The Sitting Posture System developed as our project is an instrument based technique wherein we use wearable devices with sensors attached on a person to record body positions. The recorded positions are compared with standard positions. The comparison results are used thereafter to alert the users to correct their postures through alert messages of an Android App. The system developed can be used to minimize mental and physical disorders arising due to improper sitting posture.