Design of a Mechanical Spine to Reduce Neck Strain During Prolonged Surgical Operations

Surgeons often experience neck strain due to prolonged static head positions and high-risk postures while using surgical headlamps and magnification loupes. Studies show that over 64% of surgeons report musculoskeletal pain annually, with chronic neck pain being the most common issue. This strain can lead to long-term disorders, forcing some to shorten their careers or undergo spinal surgery. Existing ergonomic solutions focus on reducing weight or improving balance but fail to provide active neck support. To address this, we developed a mechanical spine system using motors and a pulley mechanism to create controlled tension between the head and shoulders, reducing muscle strain and enhancing neck support during surgery.
Additional Co-Authors: Jun Chun