Differentiating movement strategy between high and low biomechanical exposure lifts and lifters

Backboard lifting is a physically demanding component of paramedic work. The movement strategy used in backboard lifting can modulate the biomechanical exposures on the body. This study used a pattern recognition approach to identify differences in movement strategy between high and low exposure lifts and lifters. Low exposure lifts involved a movement strategy with the body closer to the load, lower body extension preceding trunk extension, and an upright trunk. Only the horizontal distance of body to the load could consistently differentiate mean movement strategy between high and low exposure lifters. Findings from this study can inform both training and assessment of biomechanically favourable backboard lifting movement strategies.