Applying Subjective Measures to Evaluate Sitting Discomfort: Pertinent Research and Recent Developments

Abstract

One of the key considerations when sitting particularly for a long period of time, either in the office chair or car seat is comfort. Studies have revealed a high number of reports regarding discomfort and musculoskeletal disorders while sitting in a fixed position. The main objective of this study is to review past and present subjective assessment in published studies in the area of sitting discomfort and find the gap between each study to be applied in future studies. Fifty relevant studies were identified and chosen from electronic databases, dating as far back as 1969. "Seat", "chair", "sit", "comfort", "discomfort" and "assessment" were the keyword search terms for this paper. Past studies demonstrated numerous purposes and techniques of analysing sitting discomfort. They provide better understanding for both researchers and the industry to deal with sitting discomfort issues. Various assessment methods have also been applied in the previous studies. However, they are still areas found in past studies that need to be investigated. Therefore, it is proposed that another assessment is performed to analyse sitting discomfort, by exploring issues derived from this review.