Back pain prevented by biomechanical device

When activated, the patent-pending mechanised undergarment can reduce muscle activity in the lower back by up to 45 per cent. The device itself consists of two fabric sections made of nylon canvas, Lycra, polyester and other materials for the chest and legs. These sections are connected by straps across the middle back, with natural rubber pieces at the lower back and glutes.

The device is designed so that users engage it only when they need it. A double tap to the shirt engages the straps and when a task such as lifting is done another double tap releases the straps. This lets the user sit down, and the device feels and behaves like normal clothing. The device also can be controlled by an app, with users tapping their phones to engage the smart clothing via Bluetooth.

Eight subjects tested the device leaning forward and lifting 25-pound and 55-pound weights while holding their position at 30, 60 and 90 degrees. Using motion capture, force plates and electromyography, it was demonstrated that the device reduced activity in the lower back extensor muscles by an average of 15 to 45 per cent for each task.