The influence of workload on muscle fatigue, tissue properties, and postural stability in older and younger workers

Demographic aging and extended working lives have prompted interest in the physiological changes that occur with age, particularly in the lumbar spine. Age-related declines in muscle quality and intervertebral disc alterations may reduce muscular endurance, strength, and postural stability, potentially increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries in older workers. As experienced workers play an important role in addressing labor shortages, understanding the impact of age-related physiological changes on the biomechanical properties of the lumbar spine is key to ensure safe and sustainable employment for aging individuals. This study aimed to compare the impact of daily work-related physical efforts on lumbar muscular endurance and fatigue, spine tissue properties, and postural stability between older and younger workers. A total of 40 participants, 20 in Group 1 (young workers: ≤50 years; mean age: 28.89 ± 7.23) and 20 in Group 2 (older workers: >50 years; mean age: 59.40 ± 5.29) were recruited. Measurements taken at the beginning and end of the workday included lumbar muscle endurance, maximal voluntary contraction, disc height and postural stability. Age groups were compared using repeated measures ANOVA across the two measurement times. No significant interaction between age and time of day was observed, indicating that, for similar workload, both age groups experienced similar changes. Despite age-related effects on maximal force production and postural stability, incorporating weight as a covariate revealed that these differences were partially explained by the weight discrepancy between older and younger workers. The study suggests that age may not be the primary determinant of the impact of a workday on older workers.