Effects of Standing Aids on Lumbar Spine Posture and Muscle Activity in the Lumbar Spine and Hip during Prolonged Standing

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to compare different standing postures with the use of standing aids for lumbar spine posture and muscle activity, and to identify the most desirable standing posture. METHODS: The lumbopelvic angle was assessed based on static radiographic measurement on the sagittal plane. Lumbar lordosis, lumbosacral lordosis, and the intervertebral joint angle at L1/L5 and L5/S1 were measured using radiography in three standing postures (standing on level ground, standing with one foot on a platform, and standing on a sloped surface). In addition, muscle activity was measured using surface electromyography to examine the co-contraction of the lumbar and hip muscles. RESULTS: Lumbar lordosis, lumbosacral lordosis, and L5/S1 intervertebral joint flexion occurred with one foot on the platform. No significant differences were found between standing on a sloped surface and standing on level ground. However, muscle co-contraction was reduced with the use of standing aids. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that standing with a foot on a platform induced lumbar lordosis, but that there was no significant difference between standing on a sloped surface and standing on level ground. However, muscle co-contraction was reduced with the use of standing aids. Based on the motor control pattern as a predictor of LBP, the use of standing aids would help workers during prolonged standing.