Original scientific paper

Ergonomical comparision between the back function tests

OSMAN MUFTIĆ ; Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb, Ivana Lučića 5, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
SLOBODAN KUVALJA ; Cybex centar za izokinetička mjerenja i vježbe, Voćarska 106, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
JULIJANA HADJINA ; University of applied health studies Zagreb, Mlinarska cesta 38, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
ANTONIA PULJIĆ ; University of applied health studies Zagreb, Mlinarska cesta 38, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract

Background and Purpose: In this study we showed a comparison between two methods of measuring the back function, because it is still unclear exactly what the back function tests actually measure. Back lifting and extension tests (isometric back extension endurance) are commonly used methods in judgment of work ability and rehabilitation. Some new devices (isokinetic apparatus) are now in us,e which could help in the more descriptive
judgment of human back mechanical capacity.

Material and Methods: Previous isometric measurements that we have
done earlier, were used as a control group of data, but they referred to the measuring of lumbal moments which depended on pulling forces, and inclination of the trunk, as well as the age of subjects.

Results: New isokinetic devices incorporate what we call today active
dynamometry. In such devices servo motors and microprocessors have transformed early machines into fast and dynamic tools offering instant data analysis and reproducibility. This change in the fundamental data collection process finally sparked large scale interest in isokinetic testing.

Conclusion: Using this method we found that it was possible to get results on which performance is mainly influenced by heredity and behavioral factors, i.e. it assesses the physical capacity for lifting, which means that it may prove difficult to alter isokinetic lifting capacity by interventions, thus indicating that behavioral factors may play more influential roles.

Keywords

back function; paravertebral muscle; muscle cross-sectional area; lifting force

Hrčak ID:

52681

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/52681

Publication date:

31.3.2010.

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