IMAK in the News

U.S. Postal Service Study Shows 50% Decreased Wrist Pain

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE STUDY FINDS IMAK'S SMART GLOVE BENEFICIAL
Controlled study conducted by the U.S. Postal Service proves IMAK SmartGlove helpful in eliviating wrist pain and increasing comfort while working at the computer.

San Diego, CA, August 20, 2003 - A controlled study conducted at a postal processing plant of the U.S. Postal Service indicated that employees participating in the study reported reduced wrist pain and increased comfort while wearing a Smart Glove.

The study was designed and supervised by IBRAHIM FARID, M.D., Ph.D., FACPM, FACOEM, Former Director of Occupational Medicine, US Postal Service, Western Region, and implemented by MARCY BEST, RN, PHN, MSN, COHN-S Occupational Health Nurse Administrator, US Postal Service, Sacramento Region.

In the US Postal Service, large-scale use of computers and other activities involving repetitive motion has resulted in an increase in complaints of repetitive stress injuries. The Postal Service, concerned with this, called for preventive and relief measures, including improved ergonomics and alternating or modifying work as appropriate.

The IMAK Smart Glove's unique design and flexibility presented an attractive nonrestrictive device to study in conjunction with the goals of reducing repetitive stress injury complaints at the Postal Service. The study was designed to test the hypothesis that the Smart Glove will provide support and relief without restricting the use of the hand.

The study was conducted in a postal processing plant with a population of workers who each use computers for a total of 6 hours per day.

The population studied ranged in age from 18-60 (experimental group). A control group of workers was selected to match the ages of the experimental group. The study group population was randomly selected from the pool of each age group and provided with the Smart Glove fitted for size as recommended by IMAK Corporation. 39 participants were assigned to use the glove and 33 were controls.

Each worker completed an informed consent form describing the purpose and duration of the study (30 days). A demographic survey form was also completed. Before the Smart Glove was used each worker completed a symptom inventory related to the use of computers. On a scale from 0-9 workers with 0 being no problem and 9 being a major problem, each worker was asked to score his/her sensation of being tired, sore, experiencing pain or weakness.

The study results showed a significant difference in the scores of the experimental group particularly in soreness (reduction of 50%) and pain sensation (reduction of 49%). The responses of the control group did not reflect significant changes in these areas.

According to Dr. Farid, the study has demonstrated the effectiveness of the Smart Glove in relieving pain and soreness associated with repetitive use of the hand without hindering the tasks performed. He was especially impressed with the continued use of the Smart Glove following termination of the study period which further demonstrates acceptance and appreciation for the device.

About the IMAK Smart Glove

The Smart Glove is a simple ergonomic solution for preventing and relieving wrist pain, including carpal tunnel syndrome.

Designed by orthopedic & hand surgeon Dr. Ian MacMorran, the Smart Glove is made to prevent and relieve wrist pain while using the keyboard and mouse. The Smart Glove's unique features make it different from other products on the market.

First, the Smart Glove has a flexible, removable stay located on top of the hand (not underneath like traditional 'cockup' splints). The stay prevents excessive bending and flexing of the wrist but allows your hand and wrist full mobility.

Second, the Smart Glove features a built in wrist pad filled with smooth plastic beads. The wrist pad helps raise your wrists to an ergonomically desired position and prevents the wrist from resting on hard surfaces and sharp edges. Because it is made of durable cotton Lycra, the Smart Glove keeps hands comfortable, providing good circulation. And, the Smart Glove is machine washable!

The Smart Glove has become an important tool for computer users everywhere and is now available with a thumb extension for painful thumb injuries and extra thumb support.

About IMAK Products Corporation

IMAK Products Corporation, the Pain Relief Innovators™, is a San Diego based company offers products for comfort and pain relief. IMAK was founded by Aurelia Koby, president, and Ian MacMorran, MD, medical director. Dr. MacMorran is an experienced orthopedic & hand surgeon and Qualified Medical Examiner with 30 years in private practice. He has a special interest in repetitive motion injuries, and has treated thousands of patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome.

IMAK offers a line of orthopedic and ergonomic products, including the popular Pil-O-Splint and its ergoBeads wrist supports for keyboard and mouse.