Piezoelectric Damping Brace for Prevention of Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders

This study focuses on workers who frequently use hand-held power tools, as they can absorb significant vibration energy in their arms and hands, potentially leading to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These disorders include conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and hand-arm vibration syndrome. The study aims to evaluate a special brace designed to decrease the occurrence of these work-related MSDs. The brace incorporates piezoelectric damping material, which could help absorb vibrations better than most currently available braces. By testing this new brace, the study hopes to find a more effective solution to protect workers from these disorders. During the study, participants wear a brace on each hand. One brace features the piezoelectric damping material, while the other is a standard commercial brace. To simulate power tool use, participants hold hand-held joysticks and handles connected to a vibration shaker table. They then undergo a series of tests measuring hand acceleration and vibration while gripping the study joysticks and handles. These tests help compare the effectiveness of the new brace and the standard one, and they take approximately 30 minutes.