Semi-Active Exoskeletons for Forearm Muscle Strain Reduction

Forearm- and hand-related musculoskeletal disorders are increasingly becoming a concern in the construction industry. Emerging solutions such as exoskeletons could play a significant role in reducing the risks associated with exerting forearm muscles. Exoskeletons are designed to reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in occupational settings by providing support and reducing the strain on the body. However, there are limited studies focused on assessing the impact of exoskeletons designed to target forearm-related disorders. In response to this need, the present study evaluates the effectiveness of a semi-active glove exoskeleton for a simulated drilling task. The evaluation was conducted through a randomized controlled trial with 10 participants, who performed a drilling task with and without the exoskeleton. The participants' muscle activity was measured during both conditions. The results of the study show that the exoskeleton reduced muscle activity in the forearm, including the flexor digitorium superficialis (5.3%), extensor carpi radialis (5.7%), and flexor carpi ulnaris (0.5%). Additionally, the participants perceived the exoskeleton significantly reduced strains in the hand (36%; p-value = 0.016). The findings of this study suggest that forearm exoskeletons have the potential to reduce the risk of MSDs among construction workers during repetitive tasks. Although the reduction in muscle activation was marginal, the results provide impetus for future studies at the intersection of forearm MSD risk reduction and exoskeletons in the construction industry.