Ergonomics - the Spine

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INTRODUCTION – ERGO – Lesson 2 The human body is a design masterpiece. The intricacies and resilience of the human body allows us to move, work, play and perform all kinds of activities for a relatively long time (70-90 years). In this lesson, you will learn about one of the most remarkable organs in the human body; the spine. You will learn how muscles work and how they generate power to allow us to move. Anthropometry is a related science to anatomy and a valuable knowledge base for ergonomics. LESSON OUTCOMES By the end of this lesson you should be able to: 1. Identify the main parts of the spine 2. Identify the main muscle groups 3. Define anthropometry. 4. Identify the value of anthropometry in ergonomics. READING ASSIGNMENT Chapters 1 & 2 of the course textbook. Fitting the Human Karl Kroemer, CRC Press, 6th Edition Visit the following Website: Anthropometry Lesson Notes LESSON NOTES Click on the links below to access notes on the following topics: 1. Spine 2. Vertebral unit 3. Main muscle groups 4. Anthropometry LEARNING ACTIVITIES 1. Lesson 2 Discussion Board Exercise : Please post your responses to the questions in the Lesson 2 Forum on the Discussion Board. Student participation is essential. Marks are awarded for participation throughout the course. You will be graded on best 5 out of 7 discussion postings for a total of 10%. LESSON SUMMARY In this lesson we have described the basic anatomy of the spine and muscles and discussed their role in the production of movement. We have also defined anthropometry and discussed its value to the field of ergonomics. Spine The human spine is divided into five main components : 1. Cervical- 7 vertebrae (neck) 2. Thoracic- 12 vertebrae (chest/rib cage) 3. Lumbar- 5 vertebrae (low-back) 4. Sacrum- 5 fused vertebrae 5. Coccyx- 4 vertebrae (tailbone) View web page: Spinal Anatomy

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