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Continuous passive motion in seating: a new strategy against low back pain
S M Reinecke1, R G Hazard, K Coleman
1Vermont Rehabilitation Engineering Center, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, McClure Musculoskeletal Research Center, University of Vermont, Burlington.
Journal of Spinal Disorders
|February 1, 1994
Summary
A new pneumatic device offers continuous passive motion (CPM) for lumbar support, improving comfort for individuals with and without low back pain during prolonged sitting.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Low back pain (LBP) significantly impacts daily activities and occupational tolerance for prolonged sitting.
- Current interventions for LBP often do not adequately address the challenges of sitting intolerance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel pneumatic device for delivering continuous passive motion (CPM) to the lumbar spine.
- To assess the efficacy of this device in improving comfort and lumbar lordosis during sitting.
Main Methods:
- A pneumatic device with a lumbar support bladder was designed, featuring cyclic inflation/deflation controlled by a pump, valve, and timer.
- Pressure feedback and user-selectable cycle duration/support pressure were incorporated.
- The device was tested in a simulated automobile setting with subjects without LBP history and subsequently with individuals experiencing chronic LBP.
Main Results:
- The CPM device successfully induced lumbar lordotic motion and enhanced comfort in subjects without a history of LBP.
- Individuals with chronic LBP reported increased comfort when using the CPM device during routine motor vehicle operation.
Conclusions:
- The developed lumbar CPM device shows promise as a strategy to alleviate discomfort associated with prolonged sitting.
- Further research is warranted to investigate its potential in reducing occupational disability stemming from sitting intolerance in LBP patients.