Experienced Pain with a Gait-Assist Wearable Robot: A Gender Perspective
Abstract
Gender plays a key role in understanding poor wearability and pain experience in wearable products, providing valuable insights for industrial improvements. However, there is a lack of gender-related knowledge through empirical research. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate gender differences in subjective pain perception associated with the use of a near-market gait-assistive wearable robot. Seven men and five women participated in the study, walking on a treadmill with the robot anchored and subsequently completing surveys to assess fit sensation, pain intensity, dynamic discomfort, and product usability. The waist front's anchor demonstrated the most negative fit and the highest levels of pain, regardless of gender. Specifically, gender-specific morphological differences at the waist front and thighs were observed, and emotional and design perceptions were identified. These findings not only provide actionable insights and practical benchmarks, but also underscore the importance of understanding gender-specific improvements in the future development of everyday wearable products.
Keywords: Subjective pain, Wearable robot, Gender difference, Ergonomic design, Wearability
How to Cite:
Lee, S., Hong, Y., Lee, S. & Park, J., (2025) “Experienced Pain with a Gait-Assist Wearable Robot: A Gender Perspective”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18815
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