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Ginocchiera da lavoro: perché non basta più nel 2025

Working knee brace: why it's no longer enough in 2025

Working on your knees, an underestimated risk

Kneeling for long periods is not only uncomfortable: it is a repeated behavior that, over time, can seriously compromise joint and muscle health, and the work knee pad is no longer sufficent. Despite this, this posture is often seen as a necessary evil, an integral part of many manual occupations. The real risk, however, is largely underestimated.

Working kneeling or bending involves continuous strain on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the knee joints, the lumbar region of the spine, and the leg muscles. This type of mechanical stress does not occur immediately, but as it accumulates day after day, it can give rise to chronic diseases requiring lengthy and costly treatments, and in some cases, even leaving their jobs early.

Statistics confirm the seriousness of the problem: according to INAIL, more than half of the occupational diseases reported annually in Italy involve musculoskeletal disorders, often related to repetitive movements or incorrect postures maintained for prolonged periods. At the same time, theEU-OSHA emphasizes how static positions, such as kneeling, are among the main causes of premature joint wear in manual workers.

In essence, what may seem like a simple temporary soreness today could become a permanent limitation tomorrow. It is therefore essential to start Looking at kneeling work not as an unavoidable necessity, but as a condition that requires intelligent and preventive solutions.

Working knee brace: useful but not decisive

intro
A craftsman with a work knee brace. Next to the trolley system relax.

Work knee pads represent one of the most widely used accessories used by professionals who work in contact with the ground. Generally constructed of rigid plastic material with light internal padding, they serve to protect the kneecap from bumps and hard surfaces. However, their actual impact on joint health is limited.

In fact, these protections act only superficially, acting as a barrier between the skin and the floor, but Do not intervene in the root causes of distress: constant pressure on the knee, stiff posture, lack of support for the back and buttocks.

The greatest risk is that traditional knee pads, while providing a minimum of relief, give the false impression that they are sufficient to protect the body. The truth is, when used alone for hours of daily work on the knees, Do not prevent the onset of chronic diseases.

A study published in BMJ Occupational & Environmental Medicine showed that workers exposed to prolonged kneeling positions have a double probability of developing gonarthrosis, and that the use of knee pads alone does not significantly reduce this risk.

In addition, according to the Italian Society of Occupational Medicine, activities involving prolonged static joint loads-such as kneeling or continuous torso flexion-are to be considered among the most dangerous factors for musculoskeletal health, especially if not supported by appropriate ergonomic tools.

In conclusion, work knee braces are a first step toward protection, but on their own are not enough. For those who spend several hours a day in this position, it is necessary to think in terms of advanced ergonomics: tools capable of Distribute weight, support posture and reduce load On knees, back and joints.

Need a change of perspective: ergonomics and prevention not just work knee braces

In the modern world of work, prevention can no longer be an option-it is a necessity. In particular, for all manual tasks that involve awkward and repetitive postures, such as prolonged kneeling, it is essential to completely rethink the approach to body protection and support that goes beyond a simple work knee brace.

The simple localized protection offered by a knee brace is no longer sufficient. A broader vision is needed, based on principles of applied ergonomics, which considers the body as an integrated system. This means introducing solutions capable of supporting the entire posture, better distribute muscle load and minimize joint stress.

According to theEuropean Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), ergonomics in the workplace is one of the most crucial factors in preventing musculoskeletal disorders. The adoption of ergonomic tools improves working conditions and helps decrease absenteeism, reducing the risk of long-term occupational diseases.

An advanced ergonomic device, as opposed to a simple protector, not only cushions ground contact, but Actively intervenes in posture, ensuring:

  • A better alignment of the spine;
  • A reduction of pressure on knees and hips;
  • greater freedom of movement;
  • More effective distribution of body weight.

As also stated by the Italian Society of Ergonomics, modern ergonomics must anticipate the problem, designing environments and tools that fit people and not the other way around.

Adopting smart ergonomic supports means not only preventing pain and injury, but Investing in efficiency, productivity and quality of work. A body that works healthy is a body that works better, longer and with less risk. Change your work knee brace now to something more effective.

Who is most at risk: a comprehensive overview of the most exposed occupational groups who use work knee braces

Not all occupations are equal when it comes to postural hazards. Some categories of workers are Structurally exposed to kneeling or bending postures, for many hours every day, for years where even a work knee brace is not enough. And these very categories, according to data collected by theEU-OSHA, are the most prone to develop musculoskeletal disorders of varying degrees.

Tilers, flooring contractors and installers

un piastrellista usa una ginocchiera da lavoro ma non è sufficente per prevenire problemi alla schiena e alle ginocchia.
Tiler using work knee brace.

Among those most affected are floor layers, who spend much of their day on their knees, often on hard, cold, uneven surfaces. The continuous load on the knees and the need for repetitive movements with the hands and arms also expose the shoulders and neck to chronic strain. The classic work knee brace does not solve the problem at all.

Mechanics, tire shops, body shops

un meccanico usa una ginocchiera da lavoro ma non è sufficente per prevenire problemi alla schiena e alle ginocchia.
Do you use work knee brace and suffer from back pain? Find the best solution.

Those working in the auto repair industry are often forced to work on the floor or in confined spaces, without the ability to get up frequently. The kneeling or stooped position is aggravated by the use of heavy tools and the requirement to maintain concentration on minute details, in conditions that can last for hours.

Electricians, installers and plumbers

un elettricista usa una ginocchiera da lavoro ma non è sufficente per prevenire problemi alla schiena e alle ginocchia.
Electrician in awkward position even though he has work knee brace

When laying cables, making implants or installing floor devices, these professionals also often find themselves working on their knees or bent over low surfaces. The work is complex, repetitive and requires prolonged asymmetrical postures that increase the risk of muscle imbalances and joint compression.

Plumbers and maintenance technicians

un idraulico usa una ginocchiera da lavoro ma non è sufficente per prevenire problemi alla schiena e alle ginocchia.
If you are a plumber and use the classic work knee brace you will continue to have lumbosacral tension.

These figures often find themselves working in cramped spaces: under sinks, inside crawl spaces, in fixtures and crawl spaces. Their knees rest on hard surfaces for long periods and their backs are constantly flexed forward, dramatically increasing the risk of lumbar hernias and lumbosacral strains.

Logistics workers, cleaners, fitters

un addetto alle pulize usa una ginocchiera da lavoro ma non è sufficente per prevenire problemi alla schiena e alle ginocchia.
Even with the work knee brace, the cleaner assumes a rigid posture.

Tasks that require continuous downward movements, carrying objects from the floor, cleaning on the floor or assembling at ground level also expose workers to repetitive kneeling postures. Particularly in manufacturing and logistics environments, the time available for breaks is often reduced, exacerbating biomechanical overload.

Artisans and the self-employed

artigiano

Many craftsmen do not have access to fixed ergonomic workstations. They work wherever they need to: on the construction site, in the client's home, in improvised spaces. Because of this, they are among the most vulnerable: they often overlook early signs of physical discomfort and tend to normalize aches and pains.

In all these categories, the common denominator is the lack of truly effective support tools. Awareness of the importance of prevention is still low, but it is in these environments that the introduction of intelligent ergonomic systems can make the difference between a long and healthy working career or one compromised by chronic conditions.

A smart approach: ergonomics that accompany, not limit

The evolution of ergonomics in manual labor should not be seen as restricting freedom of movement, but as a True ally of performance and health. The traditional concept that ergonomics imposes constraints is outdated: today, ergonomic tools are designed to Follow and accompany the body's natural gestures, not to force them.

According to the Italian Society of Ergonomics and Human Factors (SIE), modern ergonomics aims to. Optimize the interaction between the individual and the work environment, reducing physical exertion and improving the quality of actions performed. In other words, the ergonomic device does not replace the body, but helps it work more efficiently and safely.

This approach is especially important for kneeling or bent-over work, where even small adjustments in posture can make a big difference. Support devices, not just a simple work knee brace, must:

  • be lightweight, mobile and adaptable To the operational context;
  • Reduce stress on knees, pelvis, and lower back;
  • Improve prolonged comfort without compromising productivity;
  • Facilitate repetitive movements, translations and rapid movements.

An example of this principle is the multifunctional mobile supports that combine anatomical paddinggluteal support plans, e multidirectional wheel systems, allowing the operator to work close to the ground but dynamically and safely.

Screenshot 2025 04 08 alle 14.09.12
Without a working knee pad but with the use of the Relax System Cart.

The real innovation is not only in protection, but in the ability to prevent the onset of pain, accompanying the body in its natural motor pattern. It is therefore not a compromise, but a more sustainable work strategy that brings concrete benefits in the short and long term.

This is the kind of ergonomics that the modern workplace needs: one that does not hinder, but encourages and supports.

Prevention is protection

Investing in prevention means taking care of your body before damage occurs. In the workplace, and particularly in manual occupations, this concept takes on an even deeper value: health is the most important working tool. When it comes to activities performed kneeling or bending on the floor for hours, the question is not whether musculoskeletal disorders will come, but when. If you keep using only a very simple work knee brace, you will not solve the problem.

As shown by numerous research studies and data published by INAIL, the vast majority of occupational diseases in Italy are linked precisely to incorrect postures and repetitive strain. The good news is that, with the right knowledge and tools, it is possible to reversing this trend.

Adopting smart ergonomic solutions is not only a matter of personal well-being, but also of work efficiency and sustainability over time. Improving posture, easing the load on joints and reducing physical stress results in less absenteeism, higher productivity, fewer errors, and more quality work done.

Carrellino System Relax®
Replace your work knee brace with the best solution for your health, the System relax cart

One of the tools that is making a difference in many contexts today is the Relaxation System. While not a simple work knee brace, this device is one of the most effective answers to the problem of extreme postures and joint overload. Designed to accompany and support the body in a physiological way, the Relax System is already making a concrete contribution to prevention in several manual areas.

In conclusion, choosing an ergonomic approach is neither a luxury nor a fashion: it is a Concrete need to work better and longer. Prevention, now more than ever, is the true form of protection.

Are work knee pads really enough to protect the knees?

No. Traditional knee pads protect against abrasions and bumps, but do not prevent joint overload Nor do they improve posture. For effective prevention, ergonomic support acting on the entire body posture is necessary.

Who is most at risk of developing kneeling work-related diseases?

Professionals such as. Tilers, mechanics, electricians, installers, plumbers e logistics operators are the most exposed. These workers hold uncomfortable and repetitive positions for hours, often without proper support.

What are the most common diseases associated with this type of work?

The most common are: gonarthrosisbursitistendinitisdisc herniations e lower back pain. These are all conditions that develop from prolonged poor postures. Even the work knee brace does not solve the problem.

Are there concrete solutions to prevent these disorders?

Yes. The adoption of advanced ergonomic devices, designed to distribute body weight, support the knees and improve posture, is one of the most effective prevention tools.

What is the Relaxation System and how does it work?

The Relaxation System is a device which provides ergonomic support for knees, buttocks and back, facilitating work on the floor in the correct position. It is not just a simple work knee brace, but a complete aid for those working in critical postural conditions.

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