American researchers have implemented a new smart garment capable of reducing lower back pain during exercise, according to the results of a study published during a American Society of Biomechanics conference in Boulder, Colorado . A new solution when more than half of adults suffer from low back pain in their lifetime, and the cost of this pathology is estimated at $ 30 billion in medical expenses and more than $ 100 billion in lost productivity in the United States every year.
A team of engineers from Vanderbilt University in the United States has developed a smart, mechanized underwear that uses the science of biomechanics to prevent back pain.
Reduce physical effort
The device consists of two sections of fabric, nylon canvas, lycra, polyester and other materials, for the chest and legs. The sections are connected by sturdy straps on the mid-back, with natural rubber patches on the lower back and leg warmers.
Eight subjects tested the device by leaning forward and lifting weights of 25 pounds (11 kilos) and 55 pounds (30 kilos) while maintaining their position at 30, 60, and 90 degrees. Using motion capture, force plates and electromyography, the team demonstrated that the device reduced lower back muscle activity by an average of 15-45% for each task.
This device is designed so that users can use it only when they need it. When the task is completed, the user can sit and move around normally, as a result the device feels and behaves like normal clothing.
“This new technology is not intended for the treatment of people with existing back pain, but focuses on prevention by reducing stress and fatigue on the muscles of the lower back” insists Dr. Aaron Yang, who specializes in the non-surgical treatment of the back and neck at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and author of the study.
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