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Biomedical subjects

P Capodaglio

Publications and source records attributed to P Capodaglio.

34 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
PubMedDate not supplied

[Aging and work: health aspects in cleaners].

Over the last few years, studies on the relationship between ageing and work have attracted growing interest due to the increased probability among workers of developing major health problems as a consequence of ageing workers. Negative outcomes for health are possible when an age-related imbalance appears between physical workload and physical work capacity. Cleaning could be considered as a paradigm for studying the relationship between ageing and physically demanding jobs. Cleaning workers show a high proportion of ageing women who are at the bottom level of the social-status class and are generally poorly educated with low income and social support level. This study, particularly aimed at highlighting the presence of musculo-skeletal disorders, was conducted by means of standardized questionnaires and protocols for collecting anamnestic and clinical data. The results show an increased prevalence of disorders of elbow, wrist/hand and cervical spine which could be caused by work organization and non-ergonomic tools. On the basis of the experience gained it was possible to propose solutions for the ageing working population concerning the workload, health surveillance methods and the ergonomic measures as regards organization, work place and tools.

Adolescent↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[Efficacy of a chair with magnets in the prevention of musculo-skeletal disorders caused by prolonged sitting].

The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the effectiveness of a sitting system based on the application of magnetic fields in the prevention of posture-related musculoskeletal disorders. We studied 5 healthy male volunteers during laboratory simulation tests including 60-minute sessions of "driving" and computer-work. Two subjects performed a 60-minute driving test on an isotonic dynamometer with a steering wheel, in which they had to steer for 2 min and drive normally for 3 min, alternatively. They repeated the test with and without the magnet-based sitting system. Three subjects performed a 60-minute computer-work test in a seated position with and without the magnet-based sitting system. EMG activity was registered in the trapezius muscles and at L1 and L5 lumbar level bilaterally with surface electrodes. The EMG trapezius activity continuously recorded was analysed with the APDF method, as proposed by Jonsson. Before and after the tests, the subjects performed a 60-sec isometric back extension at 60% MVC with a specific back dynamometer, while paraspinal EMG was recorded. The slope of decay of the median frequency of the EMG power spectrum was then calculated as an index of localised muscle fatigue. The results showed a decreased myoelectric activity both at shoulder and lumbar level by using the magnet-based sitting system for prolonged seated work tasks. Thus, the system appears to be an effective tool in preventing muscle contractures secondary to prolonged, constrained positions.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

The use of subjective rating of exertion in Ergonomics.

In Ergonomics, the use of psychophysical methods for subjectively evaluating work tasks and determining acceptable loads has become more common. Daily activities at the work site are studied not only with physiological methods but also with perceptual estimation and production methods. The psychophysical methods are of special interest in field studies of short-term work tasks for which valid physiological measurements are difficult to obtain. The perceived exertion, difficulty and fatigue that a person experiences in a certain work situation is an important sign of a real or objective load. Measurement of the physical load with physiological parameters is not sufficient since it does not take into consideration the particular difficulty of the performance or the capacity of the individual. It is often difficult from technical and biomechanical analyses to understand the seriousness of a difficulty that a person experiences. Physiological determinations give important information, but they may be insufficient due to the technical problems in obtaining relevant but simple measurements for short-term activities or activities involving special movement patterns. Perceptual estimations using Borg's scales give important information because the severity of a task's difficulty depends on the individual doing the work. Observation is the most simple and used means to assess job demands. Other evaluations integrating observation are the followings: indirect estimation of energy expenditure based on prediction equations or direct measurement of oxygen consumption; measurements of forces, angles and biomechanical parameters; measurements of physiological and neurophysiological parameters during tasks. It is recommended that determinations of performances of occupational activities assess rating of perceived exertion and integrate these measurements of intensity levels with those of activity's type, duration and frequency. A better estimate of the degree of physical activity of individuals thus can be obtained.

Ergonomics↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[De Quervain's tenosynovitis and work with hand tools: a case study].

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limbs are a frequent complaint and their pathogenetic mechanism is often related to mechanical overload of the body region involved without traumatic events. The occupational origin of such disorders is much debated, since the clinical pictures are often not specific and may be found in subjects who do not perform hazardous work tasks. A better understanding of the relationship between clinical symptoms, diagnosis, and functional capacity would provide a deeper knowledge in decision making for return to work and rehabilitation strategies. In this paper we present a case study of a worker using scissors who developed De Quervain's syndrome in the dominant hand. A methodology for the biomechanical investigation of the work task and the possible occupational aetiology of the clinical picture are discussed according to the findings of the specific literature.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[Physical workload demands: the combined use of 2 evaluation programs].

A computerized methodology is presented for the "on-site" evaluation of work-related physical activities in industrial plant workers. Subjects were videotaped during the activities while heart rate and subjective perception of effort were monitored. The videorecordings were then analyzed with two appropriate software, in order to identify activities at high risk for musculoskeletal injuries ("Vision 3000" program, Promatek Ltd., Montreal) and to evaluate energy expenditure ("Energy" program, University of Michigan). Validation of the energy expenditure indirect analysis system was done by monitoring oxygen consumption (VO2) with a portable telemetric oxygen uptake analyzer ("K2", Cosmed, Rome). No statistically significant differences were found between direct measurements of VO2 and laboratory-derived estimates of energy consumption. The utilization of these two software provides a fast and reliable profile of job requirements and associated risks of musculoskeletal injury.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Quantification of muscular activity in the shoulder region during monotonous repetitive work.

The purpose of this preliminary study was to evaluate the degree of myoelectric activity (EMG) in the shoulder muscles during repetitive monotonous work cycles in order to assess the load on the shoulder muscles. The tasks were video recorded and the movements performed were analyzed with a direct computer-based observational method (OS-WALD). The amplitude distribution probability function (ADPF) of the surface EMG from the deltoideus lateralis and trapezius pars descendens muscles was analyzed in 6 persons working on assembly lines. For each subject, "on-site" EMG and video recordings were performed over 10-minute periods at four different workstations on the same day. Force/EMG amplitude calibration curves had been previously calculated for the same subjects using a strain-gauge dynamometer. The results obtained during the working periods were the following: the mean static contraction level, as defined by Jonsson (13), was 1.3% MVC in the trapezius muscle and 0.5% MVC in the deltoid muscle; the medium contraction level was 5.2% MVC in the trapezius and 1.7% MVC in the deltoid; the peak contraction level was 17% MVC in the trapezius and 6.2% MVC in the deltoid. When compared to previously suggested upper limits of ADPF levels, all the contraction levels monitored were below the recommended limits. The assessment of musculoskeletal load in the shoulder region via EMG and video recordings led us to conclude that the work cycles examined were characterized by low-repetitive monotonous work and were well organized in order to avoid the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[Indicators of dynamic work tolerability in healthy subjects].

This paper reports a study on the dynamics of tolerability in performing dynamic cycling in healthy subjects. Data on individually tolerable levels (power x duration) was obtained from 9 subjects by means of three submaximal tests on an ergometric bicycle lasting < or = 40 minutes, with constant load (50%, 65% and 80% of maximum VO2 reached during a previous test of increasing difficulty within the limits of the symptoms). During performance of the test we monitored heart rate and subjective perception of fatigue (Borg's 10-point scale). We then defined the individual functions of "isoperception", which expressed the individual trend of the product "power x duration" at identical subjective perception score. On the basis of the metabolic parameters monitored, the individual isoperceptive functions at a "moderate" level of fatigue (3 on the Borg scale) were defined as "tolerability) threshold" for prolonged dynamic cycling. The product "power x duration" defined by the isoperceptive curves at a "moderate" level of fatigue does in fact reflect the individual aerobic capacity that can be sustained for prolonged dynamic activity (under 60 minutes). In order to validate the hypothesis of tolerability of the functions identified, three further short tests were performed (duration < or = 8.5 minutes) on an ergometric bicycle, with measurement of ventilatory and metabolic parameters.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Functional correlates in the rehabilitation of occupational low back pain.

The aim of this preliminary report was to identify physiological parameters related to functional improvement in industrial workers with occupational low back pain (LBP) undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program. Four able-bodied and four LBP industrial workers were evaluated before and after a 4-week rehabilitation program. Dynamic and static strength tests, namely sustained isometric contractions, were performed in conjunction with surface electromyographic (EMG) measurements. Significant pre-rehabilitation differences were found between the two groups. Measured forces changed significantly in LBP subjects immediately after rehabilitation. No significative changes were found in the control subjects after the rehabilitation program. After rehabilitation, the slope of decay of the median frequency of the EMG power spectrum at L4 level, during a 60-sec isometric submaximal (60% MVC) contraction, decreased significantly (p < 0.02) indicating a lower fatigue level.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[Use of subjective perception of exertion in the evaluation of the tolerance to repetitive lifting: a pilot study].

This preliminary study was conducted to validate subjective perception of effort as indicator of the tolerable workload for prolonged lifting tasks. Three healthy male subjects underwent endurance and incremental lifting tests. Cardiorespiratory parameters (HR, VO2) were monitored with a portable telemetric oxygen uptake analyzer, mechanical parameters were calculated from a lift dynamometer. Rating of perceived exertion was given on Borg's CR-10 scale. Individual fitness profiles for lifting tasks were obtained from the individual relationships between oxygen consumption and heart rate at different lifting frequencies. Physiological responses to repetitive lifting were matched with subjective perceptions. The relationship between perception of exertion and time was described by power functions, Y = a.Xn, in which 0 < n < 1. A single-variable statistical regression for power functions was performed to obtain the individual "iso-perception" curves. The iso-perception curve corresponding to a "moderate effort" (CR3) identified the individual tolerable threshold for prolonged lifting tasks. The individually tolerable power output over time for lifting tasks was calculated.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Tolerability to prolonged lifting tasks. A validation of the recommended limits.

Prolonged physical exertion is subjectively regulated by the perception of effort. This preliminary study was conducted to validate the use of subjective perceptions of effort in assessing objectively tolerable workloads for prolonged lifting tasks. Ten healthy male subjects tested their maximal lifting capacity (MLC) on a lift dynamometer (LidoLift, Loredan Biomed., West Sacramento, CA) and underwent incremental and 30-minute endurance lifting tests. Cardiorespiratory parameters were monitored with an oxygen uptake analyzer, mechanical parameters were calculated using a computerized dynamometer. Ratings of perceived exertion were given on Borg's 10-point scale. Physiological responses to repetitive lifting were matched with subjective perceptions. A single-variable statistical regression for power functions was performed to obtain the individual "iso-perception" curves as functions of the mechanical work exerted. We found that the "iso-perception" curve corresponding to a "moderate" perception of effort may represent the individual "tolerance threshold" for prolonged lifting tasks, since physiological responses at this level of intensity did not change significantly and the respiratory exchange ratio was less than one. The individually tolerable weight for lifting tasks lasting 30 min has been expressed as a percentage of the isoinertial MLC value and compared with the currently recommended limits for prolonged lifting tasks (Italian legislation D.L. 626/94). On the basis of our preliminary results a "tolerance threshold" of 20% MLC has been proposed for prolonged lifting tasks.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[The assessment of functional capacity in workers with the thoracic outlet syndrome. A pilot study].

Occupational specialists are well aware of the lack of objective measurements for the diagnosis and the functional evaluation of workers affected by thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Subjects affected by TOS refer pain, sensation of fatigue in the arm frequently aggravated by overhead work. A "stick-up" position tends to close the costoclavicular space and tense the neck and shoulder muscles to bring into play the abnormal compression mechanism that may affect the brachial plexus nerves and the subclavian vessels. In a previous study, we demonstrated the reliability of an isokinetic hand grip endurance test. In this pilot study we asked 7 industrial workers affected by TOS to perform a 30-second isokinetic endurance test for hand gripping with a Lido WorkSET dynamometer. Tests were performed in two positions (resting and "stick-up" position) before and after a 3-week intensive rehabilitation program. In addition, the subjects performed daily aerobic exercise with an arm crank ergometer. Objective indexes of posttreatment improvement were found. Subjects were able to generate higher grip forces during the isokinetic hand grip endurance test and to sustain higher mechanical workload with the arm ergometer at the same intensity level for longer duration after completion of the rehabilitation program.

Adult↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[An ergonomic study of postures of toll collectors].

The working activities of operators in the workstations along the italian motor ways involve repetitive movements of upper limbs and neck with asymmetric postures of the trunk. The tasks examined are characterized by factors potentially dangerous for developing musculo-skeletal disorders, such as repetitivity, and prolonged constrained postures. It is therefore crucial that dimensional and structural characteristics of the workplace are adequately designed, with regard to the anthropometric parameters and the type of activity performed. The results of our "on-site" investigation, using an observational method (OCRA), dedicated computerized modules for postural analysis (software "Vision 3000", Promatek, Ltd.), and recordings of myoelectrical activity (surface EMG) in the muscles of the shoulder girdle, have shown the need of a partial re-designing of the man-workstation system under investigation.

Bone Diseases↗
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[Evaluation of the capacity of work using upper limbs after radical latero-cervical surgery].

Evaluation of arm work capacity after radical neck surgery. The aim of this paper is to describe an approach for the assessment of work capacity in patients who underwent radical neck surgery, including those treated with radiation therapy. Nine male patients, who underwent radical neck surgery 2 months before being referred to our Unit, participated in the study. In addition to manual muscle strength test, we performed the following functional evaluations: 0-100 Constant scale for shoulder function; maximal shoulder strength in adduction/abduction and intrarotation/extrarotation; instrumental. We measured maximal isokinetic strength (10 repetitions) with a computerized dynamometer (Lido WorkSET) set at 100 degrees/sec. During the rehabilitation phase, the patients' mechanical parameters, the perception of effort, pain or discomfort, and the range of movement were monitored while performing daily/occupational task individually chosen on the simulator (Lido WorkSET) under isotonic conditions. On this basis, patients were encouraged to return to levels of daily physical activities compatible with the individual tolerable work load. The second evaluation at 2 month confirmed that the integrated rehabilitation protocol successfully increased patients' capacities and "trust" in their physical capacity. According to the literature, the use of isokinetic and isotonic exercise programs appears to decrease shoulder rehabilitation time. In our experience an excellent compliance has been noted. One of the advantages of the method proposed is to provide quantitative reports of the functional capacity and therefore to facilitate return-to-work of patients who underwent radical neck surgery.

Activities of Daily Living↗
PubMedDate not supplied

[Ergonomic evaluation of the physical tasks in "precision fusion" operations].

In the present paper we performed an "on-site" ergonomic analysis of the work tasks in in-plant industrial workers. Specific work cycles have been identified and analysed. We measured spatial and temporal parameters of the different actions performed by the workers, and we then defined the related risk levels according to the internationally accepted guide-lines. The results obtained indicate the need of an ergonomic intervention with the aim of providing structural changes in the work station.

Ergonomics↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Work capacity of the upper limbs after mastectomy.

Cancer patients are now more often long-term survivors and their needs for returning to social and productive activities have become a primary focus of intervention. The purpose of the present study was to propose an objective evaluation test for predicting endurance capacity in breast cancer patients after surgery, in order to optimize return to work or previous daily activities, and for monitoring changes during rehabilitation. Twenty female patients (mean age: 44 +/- 5), who underwent radical breast surgery 2 months before being referred to our Unit, participated in the study. In addition to the measures of the circumferences in the arm-forearm and manual muscle strength test, we performed the following functional evaluations: 0-100 Constant scale for shoulder function; instrumental evaluation of daily/occupational upper limb activities (Lido WorkSET). We monitored the mechanical parameters, the perception of effort, pain or discomfort, and the range of movement while performing a 3-minute steady daily/occupational task chosen by the subject. Patients were asked to perform the 3-minute test at three different intensities ("moderate", "somewhat hard", "hard") until the perception of fatigue, pain or discomfort was rated > 3 on the 10 point Borg's scale. The 'power-duration' product (Watt x min) defined by the three tests (see Fig. 1) represented the individual tolerable work load, since subjective indicators of pain/discomfort remained within tolerable limits during the exertion. On this basis, patients were encouraged to return to levels of daily physical activities compatible with the individual tolerable work load. The second evaluation, although no statistical analysis was performed, confirmed that the "guided" daily activity in a 2-month period increased patients' capacities and "trust" in their physical capacity.

Activities of Daily Living↗