Short-Term Adaptations to Lifting and Gait Kinematics When Using a Passive Back-Support Exoskeleton.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Limited understanding of prolonged back-support exoskeleton effects on movement.
• Prior research focused on short-term exoskeleton exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess 75-min passive back-support exoskeleton effects on lifting, gait, and stability.
• Investigate kinematic adaptations during prolonged exoskeleton use.

Main Methods:

• ABA protocol with 12 participants: Pre-EXO, EXO-adaptation, Post-EXO phases.
• Measured trunk kinematics, gait parameters, and postural stability.
• Piecewise linear regression for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Reduced trunk range of motion (ROM) and flexion velocity upon exoskeleton introduction, with reversals upon removal.
• No significant trunk kinematic adaptations during exoskeleton use.
• Gait changes observed: decreased step length, increased step width, reduced hip ROM, with reversals and carry-over effects.
• No changes in trunk kinematic variability or postural stability.

Conclusions:

• Passive back-support exoskeletons alter biomechanics during prolonged use but do not induce adaptation.
• Observed kinematic changes reverse after exoskeleton removal, with some carry-over effects.
• Findings inform training and safety protocols for occupational exoskeleton use.