StrongArm exoskeletons aim to eliminate back injuries in construction

Updated May 31, 2016
The V22 is a lift assist device that is designed to promote pivoting, knee bending and better body mechanics. Photo: StrongArm TechnologiesThe V22 is a lift assist device that is designed to promote pivoting, knee bending and better body mechanics.
Photo: StrongArm Technologies

Football players wear braces. Why not construction workers?

The FLx ErgoSkeleton provides feedback to users, reminding them to maintain proper posture. Photo: StrongArm TechnologiesThe FLx ErgoSkeleton provides feedback to users, reminding them to maintain proper posture.
Photo: StrongArm Technologies

StrongArm Technologies says their ErgoSkeleton braces are designed for the “industrial athlete,” which they define as anybody who does a lot of bending, twisting and carrying heavy loads in the course of a day.

There are two products. The V22 ErgoSkeleton works as a lifting assist/load distribution device. Using a load-shifting strap under the object you are carrying it distributes the weight to your legs rather than your lower back and arms. It can reduce common lumbar and compression back injuries as well as arm fatigue.

The FLx ErgoSkeleton is a posture feedback device that provides gentle pressure to reminded you to align your torso so that when lifting a heavy load, you remain in the recommended NIOSH/OSHA lifting posture (using your legs, not your back).

The devices come in small, medium and large sizes; and pads are on both devices are adjustable to fit different types of torsos. They weigh about two to three pounds and are available for purchase through 3M distribution channels.

Here’s a video on the product:

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