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The effect of an ergonomic computer device on muscle activity of the upper trapezius muscle during typing
M Tepper1, M M R Vollenbroek-Hutten, H J Hermens
1Roessingh Research and Development, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, AH Enschede 7522, The Netherlands. m.tepper@rrd.nl
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.
