Effects of Exercise-Based Interventions on Musculoskeletal Pain and Physical Function in Manufacturing Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Objectives: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent among manufacturing workers exposed to repetitive and physically demanding tasks. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of exercise-based interventions on musculoskeletal pain and physical function among manufacturing workers, focusing on symptom management and functional improvement rather than the prevention of new WMSDs. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 31, 2026. Prospective controlled studies of workplace- or job-related exercise interventions were included. Risk of bias was evaluated within the RoB 2 framework, and random-effects meta-analyses used standardized mean differences (Hedges’ g), with functional outcomes analyzed separately by domain. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261369113). Results: Thirteen studies were included in the review. The revised primary pain synthesis included seven studies (414 participants) and favored exercise-based interventions (SMD −0.69, 95% CI −1.25 to −0.12; I2 = 71.9%). Disability/function-status outcomes included three studies (143 participants; SMD −0.67, 95% CI −1.42 to 0.07). Estimates for shoulder abduction range of motion (two studies; 111 participants; SMD −0.63, 95% CI −3.29 to 2.03) and RAND-36 physical functioning (one study; 24 participants; SMD −0.21, 95% CI −1.06 to 0.64) were imprecise. Evidence certainty was low for disability/function-status outcomes and very low for the other outcomes. Conclusions: Exercise-based interventions may improve disability/function-status outcomes, although the confidence interval included little or no difference. Evidence for effects on pain, shoulder range of motion, and RAND-36 physical functioning remains very uncertain. The findings concern symptom management rather than demonstrated prevention of new WMSDs. Optimal exercise prescriptions and sustained benefits remain uncertain.