An active exoskeleton to prevent lumbar pain

Musculoskeletal disorders of the back represent a major challenge in the workplace. The active exoskeleton Japet.W+ was designed to relieve and prevent lower back pain during heavy lifting and difficult postures. It is a lightweight, adjustable motorized back support that follows the natural movements of the torso. Recent studies highlight its benefits for the lumbar spine and users. For example, a scientific article shows that participants suffering from lower back pain experience a significant reduction in their pain when using the exoskeleton.

In the workplace, the active assistance of the Japet.W+ makes it easier to lift heavy loads while protecting the back. The integrated motors generate traction forces on the spine, reducing the load on the intervertebral discs. Biomechanical simulations confirm that the exoskeleton lowers intradiscal pressure by up to 40% compared to normal conditions. This decompression is particularly pronounced during torso rotations or handling tasks performed at moderate angles (0°–20°).

Scientific Evidence of Effectiveness

Numerous recent studies have measured the impact of the Japet.W+ on pain and posture. The results are very encouraging:

Reduction of Lower Back Pain: Among operators suffering from lumbar pathologies (chronic or acute low back pain), 85% of users felt a decrease in pain by the end of the week they used the exoskeleton. Similarly, among subjects with no history of low back pain, 50% reported a decrease in daily pain when using the Japet.W+. These figures, obtained in real work situations (with daily pain recordings on a VAS scale), demonstrate the beneficial effect of active assistance on user experience.

Maintenance of Muscle Activity: Unlike a passive device that would negate muscle work, the Japet.W+ is designed to synchronize its assistance with the user's movements. Thus, preliminary studies indicate that the activity of abdominal and lumbar muscles remains virtually identical during tasks with the exoskeleton. In other words, wearing the Japet.W+ does not cause "muscle offloading" and does not weaken the trunk muscles, thus preserving the operator's physical abilities in the long term.

Improvement of Posture: Dynamic assistance helps adopt safer postures. A Japet study (ongoing) showed that equipped operators spend **85% less time in dangerous dorsal angles** compared to work without the exoskeleton. In practice, this means that the exoskeleton discourages extreme positions (torso very bent or twisted) by rebalancing the traction force. This improvement in posture translates to less strain on the lumbar vertebrae and a reduced risk of injury throughout the day.

Technological Advantages of the Japet.W+

The Japet.W+ stands out due to several key features :

Active and Motorized Exoskeleton: Equipped with four micromotors, it provides active real-time assistance to the lower back. The movements of the torso are tracked by sensors, allowing for smooth synchronization of assistance. The ergonomics of the belt facilitates prolonged wear (installation in \~30 s) and adapts to different body shapes.

Lightweight and Autonomous: The Japet.W+ version weighs approximately 2 kg (battery included). Its rechargeable battery offers a battery life of about 8 hours of continuous use, sufficient for a typical workday. The "second skin" (textile cover) is detachable and washable, ensuring hygiene and comfort.

Adjustable: The exoskeleton adjusts in height and width to the worker's body. It works well in standing position, torso bending, or rotation, while remaining discreet under work clothes.

Versatile Use: Originally designed for workplace prevention, the Japet.W+ is also indicated for rehabilitation and return to work of patients suffering from low back pain. It is certified as a medical device, resulting from R&D collaborations (notably with the Lille University Hospital) 

Thanks to its intelligent motorization, the Japet.W+ maintains the mobility of the lower back during handling tasks. For example, during lifting or storage tasks in a warehouse, the user can perform their natural movements without being restricted by the equipment. This freedom of movement, while benefiting from active lumbar support, contributes to the safety and comfort of the employee.

Applications and Availability

The Japet.W+ exoskeleton is aimed at health and safety managers, ergonomists, and employers concerned about the health of their teams. It is particularly suited for industrial, logistics, construction, agri-food sectors, or any profession requiring handling efforts or challenging postures. In Canada, the device is distributed by Exosquelettes Canada.

Conclusion and Call to Action 

In summary, the Japet.W+ presents itself as an innovative technological solution to prevent and relieve lower back pain in the workplace. Associated scientific studies indicate a notable reduction in lumbar pressure (up to 40%), a decrease in pain among the majority of users, while preserving posture and muscular engagement.

Would you like to assess the impact of the Japet.W+ in your company? Demonstrations and trials are available at Exosquelettes Canada. Feel free to contact our team to arrange a personalized presentation: experiencing the exoskeleton in action is the best way to see its concrete benefits on the field.