Effects of Two Passive Back-Support Exoskeletons on Muscle Activity and Joint Kinematics During Simulated Crab Fishing Tasks

Low back injuries are common among commercial fishermen and have been linked to physically demanding tasks involved in fishing operations. Occupational back-support exoskeletons (BSEs) may help reduce low back physical demands, but their effectiveness in commercial fishing has not been well studied. This study evaluated the effects of two passive BSEs on muscle activity and joint kinematics in 20 male participants performing simulated crab sorting and pot handling tasks with and without two rigid BSEs. Results showed that both BSEs significantly reduced erector spinae muscle activity, with larger reductions during crab sorting than during pot handling. BSE use also led to some unintended changes in abdominal and leg muscle activity and joint kinematics, depending on the task and device used. These findings suggest that BSEs may help reduce low back demands during commercial crabbing, while highlighting the need to further evaluate potential side effects, especially during long-term use under real-world fishing conditions.