Static ergonomic strength testing in evaluating occupational back pain.

Abstract

Quantitatively describing work limitation due to occupational back pain is difficult. Static ergonomic strength testing (SEST) was employed as part of a multidisciplinary evaluation program for occupational back pain, providing a quantitative description of lift ability in several positions. Comparison of intrasubject with intersubject variation confirmed that SEST did truly measure a personal characteristic. The expected degree of intrasubject variability is independent of the degree of impairment and provides a guide for detecting inadequate subject efforts. The technique allows worker-specific work restriction limitations to be recommended.