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Shoulder muscle activity increases with wrist splint use during a simulated upper-extremity work task.
Amy G Mell1, Mark A Friedman, Richard E Hughes
1Orthopaedic Research Laboratories and MedSport, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106, USA.
Summary
Wearing a wrist splint during a common manufacturing task significantly increases shoulder muscle activity. This finding highlights the importance of considering workplace ergonomics when patients use wrist splints.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Biomechanics
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Wrist splints are commonly prescribed for various hand and wrist conditions.
- The impact of wearing wrist splints on upper extremity muscle activity during occupational tasks is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of wearing a wrist splint on shoulder muscle activity during a light manufacturing task.
- To test the hypothesis that wrist splint use increases shoulder muscle activation.
Main Methods:
- Electromyography (EMG) was used to measure shoulder muscle activity in 14 volunteers.
- Muscle activity was recorded from the deltoid (anterior, middle, posterior), trapezius, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus.
- Tasks were performed with and without a wrist splint, and with varying bin heights.
Main Results:
- Wearing a wrist splint increased maximum EMG activity in all measured shoulder muscles.
- Average EMG levels for the deltoid and trapezius muscles were elevated when wearing a splint.
- Increased bin height also led to greater shoulder muscle activation.
Conclusions:
- Workplace factors, including the use of wrist splints, can alter shoulder muscle activation patterns.
- Ergonomic job analyses are recommended for patients returning to work while wearing wrist splints to prevent potential overexertion.