The movement profile of trunk and neck during habitual vacuuming

Sci Rep. 2021 Oct 14;11(1):20401. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-99664-4.

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders of the trunk and neck are common among cleaners. Vacuum cleaning is a demanding activity. The aim of this study was to present the movement profile of the trunk and neck during habitual vacuuming. The data were collected from 31 subjects (21f./10 m) using a 3D motion analysis system (Xsens). 10 cycles were analysed in vacuuming PVC and carpet floors with 8 vacuum cleaners. The joint angles and velocities were represented statistically descriptive. When vacuuming, the trunk is held in a forwardly inclined position by a flexion in the hip and rotated from this position. In the joint angles and velocities of the spine, the rotation proved to be dominant. A relatively large amount of movement took place in the cervical spine and also in the lumbar spine. The shown movement profile is rather a comfort area of vacuuming which may serve as a reference for ergonomics in vacuuming.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Ergonomics
  • Female
  • Floors and Floorcoverings*
  • Household Work*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Movement / physiology*
  • Neck / physiology*
  • Torso / physiology*
  • Vacuum