title: A methodology using in-chair movements as an objective measure of discomfort for the purpose of statistically distinguishing between similar seat surfaces.
abstract: This study presents a method for objectively measuring in-chair movement (ICM) that shows correlation with subjective ratings of comfort and discomfort. Employing a cross-over controlled, single blind design, healthy young subjects (n = 21) sat for 18 min on each of the following surfaces: contoured foam, straight foam and wood. Force sensitive resistors attached to the sitting interface measured the relative movements of the subjects during sitting. The purpose of this study was to determine whether ICM could statistically distinguish between each seat material, including two with subtle design differences. In addition, this study investigated methodological considerations, in particular appropriate threshold selection and sitting duration, when analysing objective movement data. ICM appears to be able to statistically distinguish between similar foam surfaces, as long as appropriate ICM thresholds and sufficient sitting durations are present. A relationship between greater ICM and increased discomfort, and lesser ICM and increased comfort was also found.
authors: Murdoch University, School of Health Professions, Murdoch University Chiropractic Clinic, Perth, Western Australia, 6150, Australia. Electronic address: v.cascioli@murdoch.edu.au.
authors: Vincenzo
authors: V
authors: Cascioli
authors: Harbin University of Science and Technology, China. Electronic address: 1270828386@qq.com.
authors: Zhuofu
authors: Z
authors: Liu
authors: University of South Wales, United Kingdom. Electronic address: andrew.heusch@southwales.ac.uk.
authors: Andrew
authors: A
authors: Heusch
authors: University of South Wales, United Kingdom. Electronic address: peter.mccarthy@southwales.ac.uk.
authors: Peter W
authors: PW
authors: McCarthy
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004867:Equipment Design / Q000523:psychology; D006804:Ergonomics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D064368:Healthy Volunteers; D006801:Humans; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D008297:Male; D008420:Manufactured Materials / Q000009:adverse effects; D009068:Movement; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D013997:Time Factors; D014934:Wood / Q000009:adverse effects; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Comfort; Discomfort; In-chair movement; Sitting