Dynamic Loading and Effort Perception during One - Handed Loaded Reaches

Currently, analysis of occupational shoulder loading and potential discomfort is based upon models that use static worker postures as their input. These models provide useful information about working postures, however, they do not address the overall effect of performing a task. Cumulative joint and tissue loading are dependent upon the motions and postures associated with all aspects of performing a task. Fidelity of task analysis could be improved through a dynamic loading model. This study seeks to determine if the amount of effort perceived while performing a reach is more closely related to overall joint loading, rather than to the loading occurring during commonly studied ‘extreme’ static postures. It also addresses the utility of shoulder torque as a predictor of perceived effort.