Back Straight Boys

Abstract

The Christopher Columbus Awards Competition is a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, or “STEM” program, which challenges middle school students to identify and solve a community problem by the application of science and technology. Four California students (collectively known as the “Back Straight Boys”) worked as a team to address the issue of musculoskeletal problems associated with computer use. The prevalence of computer use both in schools and the work place continues to steadily increase. Globally, improper posture at computer workstations is a widespread problem. Studies have documented the negative impact of improper posture and the resultant musculoskeletal discomfort and pain experienced by students due to frequent computer usage. This project examined the posture habits of employees in an office environment and those of students in local elementary, middle, and high schools. The project also involved conducted trials while studying various types of feedback. This included the use of their prototype ergonomic device, the “Posture Pad”, developed to provide continuous posture feedback to the user. Participants using the “Posture Pad” displayed significantly better posture 95% of the time. Participants who received instructions and verbal reminders without the sensory feedback had dramatic improvements in posture. However, these improvements were transient. This project raised the public’s awareness to this growing problem and became a catalyst for the Back Straight Boys’ advocacy for and interest in ergonomics.