Effects of load mass and position on the dynamic loading of the knees, shoulders and lumbar spine during lifting: a musculoskeletal modelling approach

Musculoskeletal models may enhance our understanding of the dynamic loading joints during manual material handling. This study used state-of-the-art musculoskeletal to determine effects load mass, asymmetry angle, horizontal location and deposit height on knees, shoulders lumbar spine lifting. Recommended weight limits lifting indices were also calculated using NIOSH equation. Based 1832 lifts from 22 subjects, we found that mass had most substantial effect L5-S1 compression. Increments in led large increases mediolateral shear, while significant anteroposterior shear. Increased higher shoulder forces, mostly affected forces knees shoulders. These results generally support findings previous research, but notable differences trends magnitudes estimated observed. • model analysis performed by healthy subjects. Load compression force. Asymmetry angle largest shear Horizontal significantly knee joint reaction forces. linearly increased