Abstract:
The lumbar region of the spine is situated between the thoracic (chest) and sacral regions. Large muscles in the
lower back region support the back and allow for trunk motion. Since covid-19 strikes Malaysia, workers and
students are forced to work and study via online platform at home as new norm of life. However, limited
movement and prolonged hours of sitting in a non-ergonomic space from doing work and studying triggered pain
on the lumbar muscle. These muscles can spasm or get strained, causing lower back pain (LBP), which is a serious
issue for most individuals. A recent study has proven that using a lumbar supporter, for example lumbar belt,
does help in supporting the lumbar spine and increase the time-span of experienced discomfort in the lumbar
area. Then, massaging the afflicted region can help to alleviate the discomfort. Therefore, this project aims to
develop a product, a hybrid portable lumbar supporter with electronic motor that helps in massaging the affected
area. The product is developed by integrating two gadgets into one machine, since it would support and massage
users at the simultaneously depending on the user’s desire by controlling the massaging device from user’s
smartphone. Hence, this paper serves to propose the idea of this product including basic electronic components
that are used in developing this project, illustrated by using block diagram and circuit diagram. Then, the
overview design of this product is shown as expected result. The desired goal of this project is that the device
will treat LBP by correcting user postures and supporting the lumbar area when sitting in a nonergonomic
position.
