Preliminary Ergonomics Analysis of Sit-Stand (STS) Desk on the Patient with Lower Back Pain Problem: A Case Study

Pain in the thoracic spine is referred to as thoracic back pain that is situated mainly between the shoulder blades at the rear of the chest (the thorax). It stretches about at the waist level from the base of the neck to the beginning of the lumbar spine. The long hours of working in a static position, especially at the desk, significantly affect the back and the patient feels pain, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Therefore, this study focuses to investigate the posture impact of the adult with back pain using a Sit-to-Stand (STS) desk product through ergonomics simulation by the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) analysis. The development of the virtual environment for ergonomics analysis is created. The study is conducted in three conditions: work-standing, work-sitting on the bedside, and work-sitting on the bed. As a result, all three postures show the same score, and modification of the environment on the posture may be needed. Also, the ergonomic effect of these postures shows the good design and comfort of the STS desk.