Thursday, 14 May 2015
School of Physiotherapy researcher, Dr Daniel Ribeiro, has received an HRC emerging researcher grant. Daniel's research will explore the effectiveness of a monitor and feedback device for changing postural behaviour.
About Daniel
Dan's research programme has two main research themes. The first is focused on clinical biomechanics, with special interest in shoulder and low back biomechanics. This is a laboratory-based research focusing on the association between musculoskeletal injury and neuromuscular and movement impairments.
The second theme explores the use of biofeedback in rehabilitation, combining laboratory with field-based research. This theme aims to identify ideal forms of feedback provision and its effectiveness as an intervention tool.
The final goal is to use the information gathered from these research themes to inform and develop new strategies for musculoskeletal rehabilitation and injury prevention.
Lay summary of HRC research project
Despite ergonomic training, health care workers are exposed to repetitive and sustained flexed posture, increasing the risk of developing low back pain (LBP). This study will assess the effectiveness of a postural monitor and feedback device for modifying postural behaviour in health care workers. Our previous research has shown this device to be a reliable and valid instrument for measuring posture at work. Results from the feasibility trial suggested health care workers, exposed to audio-feedback training delivered over a 4-week period, reduced the amount of time spent in excessively flexed posture. For this study, workers from health care organisations around Otago and Southland will be recruited. Participants will be randomly allocated to one of the two intervention arms: control or feedback group. Results from this study will have community benefit by minimising hazardous postural exposure and potentially reducing the risk of development of LBP in workers.
Contact Daniel
Email daniel.ribeiro@otago.ac.nz
Phone 03 479 7455
Twitter http://twitter.com/danielcr
