The Use of Wearable Systems for Assessing Work-Related Risks Related to the Musculoskeletal System—A Systematic Review
2024

Wearable Systems for Assessing Work-Related Risks in Musculoskeletal Disorders

Sample size: 111 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Motta Filippo, Varrecchia Tiwana, Chini Giorgia, Ranavolo Alberto, Galli Manuela

Primary Institution: Dipartimento di Elettronica, Informazione e Bioingegneria (DEIB), Politecnico di Milano

Hypothesis

This systematic review aims to compile research on the use of wearable sensor systems to assess work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs).

Conclusion

The review identifies existing research on WRMSD risks utilizing wearable systems in various job sectors and highlights under-researched areas that need further study.

Supporting Evidence

  • Work-related musculoskeletal disorders affect 1.71 billion people globally.
  • Over 50% of workers report suffering from work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Quantitative analysis through sensors can help identify causes of musculoskeletal disorders.

Takeaway

This study looks at how wearable technology can help understand and prevent injuries that workers get from doing their jobs.

Methodology

The study used a systematic review method to gather peer-reviewed publications from databases like PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, focusing on studies published between 2000 and 2023.

Potential Biases

The studies often had risks related to selection bias and lack of blinding, as participants were aware of the study's aims.

Limitations

Many studies had small sample sizes and were conducted in laboratory settings rather than real work environments, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/ijerph21121567

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