[Pain perception during simulated static work].

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of current design recommendations (additional rest allowances) for static work on the development of temporary musculo-skeletal pains. The subjects were healthy, relatively fit young adults (16 men). Static work at 25% MVC was performed both in a commonly-used working posture and in a nontypical posture (overhead work). The ratios of work-to-rest corresponded to the ergonomical recommendations. Estimates of pain-perceptions concerning the neck, shoulders and back/trunk were recorded during the muscular exercise. The results show that under certain conditions (commonly-used working posture) the additional rest allowances render possible an exercise without musculoskeletal pains. During overhead work the development of temporary pain-perceptions is not inhibited by additional rest allowances. A revision of the current design recommendations for overhead work is suggested.