Previous research indicates that dental professionals are exposed to postures that are risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders and suffer from high incidence rates of musculoskeletal disorders in the shoulder, back, and neck. Exoskeletons are assistive devices with promising findings reported both in lab and worksite settings. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how shoulder, back, and neck exoskeletons impact muscle activity, joint angles, perceived exertion, and usability during a simulated teeth cleaning task commonly performed by dental professionals. Twenty-one participants completed simulated teeth cleaning without an exoskeleton and with a shoulder exoskeleton, back exoskeleton, and neck exoskeleton. Electromyography sensors measured muscle activity while a motion capture system measured kinematic data. Perceived exertion and usability questionnaires were completed. The shoulder exoskeleton reduced 50th and 95th percentile upper trapezius activity, splenius capitis activity, and neck flexion, but increased 50th and 95th percentile shoulder flexion and abduction. The back exoskeleton reduced perceived exertion but increased 50th and 95th percentile shoulder flexion. The neck exoskeleton reduced 50th and 95th percentile splenius capitis activity, shoulder flexion, and perceived exertion. The neck exoskeleton was rated first, back exoskeleton second, and shoulder exoskeleton third for usability. The results suggest that a neck exoskeleton may be the most promising option to potentially reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders for dental professionals. Further exoskeleton assessments with dental students and professionals are recommended.
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