Generalization of posture training to computer workstations in an applied setting

J Appl Behav Anal. 2011 Spring;44(1):157-61. doi: 10.1901/jaba.2011.44-157.

Abstract

Improving employees' posture may decrease the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. The current paper is a systematic replication and extension of Sigurdsson and Austin (2008), who found that an intervention consisting of information, real-time feedback, and self-monitoring improved participant posture at mock workstations. In the current study, participants worked in an applied setting, and posture data were collected at participants' own workstations and a mock workstation. Intervention in the mock setting was associated with consistent improvement in safe posture at the mock workstation, but generalization to the actual workstation was limited.

Keywords: ergonomics; musculoskeletal disorders; real-time feedback; self-monitoring.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Computer Systems*
  • Female
  • Generalization, Psychological*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / rehabilitation*
  • Observation
  • Occupational Diseases / rehabilitation*
  • Posture / physiology*
  • Workplace*