Purpose: This work aimed to develop a novel indicator of upper limb manipulative movements. A principal component analysis (PCA) algorithm was applied to kinematic measurements of movements of the upper limbs performed during an everyday activity. Methods: Kinematics of the upper limb while drinking from a mug were investigated using the commercially available Xsens MVN BIOMECH inertial sensor-based motion capture system. The study group consisted of 20 male patients who had previously suffered an ischaemic stroke, whilst the reference group consisted of 16 males with no disorders of their motor organs. Based on kinematic data obtained, a set of 30 temporal and kinematic parameters were defined. From this, 16 parameters were selected for the determination of a novel indicator, the Upper Body Index (UBI), which served the purpose of assessing manipulative movements of upper limbs. Selection of the 16 parameters considered the percentage distribution of the parameters beyond the standard, the differences in mean values between the reference group and the study group, and parameter variability. Results: Analysis of kinematics allowed for the identification and selection of the parameters used in the development of the new index. This included 2 temporal parameters and 14 kinematic parameters, with the minimum and maximum angles of the upper limb joints, motion ranges in the joints, and parameters connected with movement of the spine recorded. These parameters were used to assess motion in the shoulder and elbow joints, in all possible planes, as well as spine movement. The values of the UBI indicator were as follows: in the case of the reference group: 13.67 ± 2.40 for the dominant limb, 13.71 ± 3.36 for the non-dominant limb; in the case of the stroke patient group: 130.86 ± 75.07 for the dominant limb, 155.58 ± 170.76 for the non-dominant limb. Conclusions: The developed UBI made it possible to discover deviations from the standard performance of upper limb movements. Therefore, the index may be applicable to the analysis of any sequence of movements carried out by the upper limb.

Background: Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides real-time evaluation of anatomical structures. While versatile in examining various organs, it can be physically demanding for physicians due to the need for challenging positions, causing musculoskeletal pain and potentially work-related diseases over time. The study aimed to assess the ergonomics of abdominal and breast ultrasound, identify the most challenging anatomical area, determine which part of the examination causes the greatest strain, and evaluate the overall ergonomic impact of the entire procedure. Methods: This single-center study involved 4 radiologists and focused on breast and abdominal ultrasonography. Kinematic data were recorded using the Noraxon Ultium Motion inertial system to track body movements during the ultrasound procedures. Five critical segments were identified while examining the liver, right kidney, left kidney, right breast, and left breast. Ergonomic assessment was performed using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) methods, evaluating postural risks and physical strain during each segment and the whole procedure. Results: Both RULA and REBA assessments yielded median total scores of 6.0–7.0 and 6.0–7.5, respectively, reflecting consistently medium to high musculoskeletal loading. Examinations of the left breast and left kidney were associated with the most demanding postures. These elevated scores demonstrate that abdominal and breast ultrasonography imposes substantial ergonomic strain, potentially increasing the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusions: The high ergonomic risk scores indicate an urgent need to modify scanning techniques and workstation design to reduce musculoskeletal strain in sonographers. Implementing ergonomic improvements is essential to prevent occupational injuries and promote long-term health.

Background: Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides real-time evaluation of anatomical structures. While versatile in examining various organs, it can be physically demanding for physicians due to the need for challenging positions, causing musculoskeletal pain and potentially work-related diseases over time. The study aimed to assess the ergonomics of abdominal and breast ultrasound, identify the most challenging anatomical area, determine which part of the examination causes the greatest strain, and evaluate the overall ergonomic impact of the entire procedure. Methods: This single-center study involved 4 radiologists and focused on breast and abdominal ultrasonography. Kinematic data were recorded using the Noraxon Ultium Motion inertial system to track body movements during the ultrasound procedures. Five critical segments were identified while examining the liver, right kidney, left kidney, right breast, and left breast. Ergonomic assessment was performed using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) methods, evaluating postural risks and physical strain during each segment and the whole procedure. Results: Both RULA and REBA assessments yielded average total scores reflecting consistently high musculoskeletal loading. Examination of the left breast and left kidney were associated with the most demanding postures. These elevated scores demonstrate that abdominal and breast ultrasonography imposes substantial ergonomic strain, potentially increasing the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusions: The high ergonomic risk scores indicate an urgent need to modify scanning techniques and workstation design to reduce musculoskeletal strain in sonographers. Implementing ergonomic improvements is essential to prevent occupational injuries and promote long-term health.

One of the important elements of musical education is correct body posture and the ability to properlay use the motor organ to play. This work presented the possibility of applying biomechanical tests to support and enhance the education of playing instruments. The results showed that it is possible to perform such an assessment based on measurements of the body’s centre mass (COM) and loads exerted on the feet. The measurement data collected in this way enables quantitative evaluation of the body posture and the COM movement during the playing activity.