Changes in Musculoskeletal Pain Among Computer Workers When Working From Home.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the impact of increased working from home on musculoskeletal pain before and after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

METHODS

In an online survey (September 2023-April 2024), pain was rated on a numeric rating scale. The impact of working from home and covariates on new pain onset and exacerbation was modeled using logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Of 1064 participating computer workers, 968 were working from home. Working from home compared to office-only work showed a trend of increasing pain. Longer remote working hours and poorer workstation setups also increased the risks for pain (eg, new neck or upper back pain; odds ratio 2.02, 95% confidence interval 1.08-3.76).

CONCLUSIONS

Preventing musculoskeletal pain should involve improving remote workstation ergonomics, promoting healthy lifestyles, participation in regular occupational health screenings, and supporting employees with anxiety or depression symptoms.