Association Between Remote Working and Back Pain: A Systematic Review

The rapid transition remote work (work from home, WFH) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns regarding its impact on employees’ physical health, significantly altering the occupational environment for millions of workers and students (Dos Santos et al., 2021; Papalia et al., 2022; Pierce et al., 2020; Symanzik et al., 2023). This systematic review synthesizes available evidence on the association between WFH and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with particular emphasis on back pain (including cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions), identifying key risk factors and potential protective measures (Dos Santos et al., 2021; Papalia et al., 2022; Russo et al., 2021; Saes-Silva et al., 2023). The findings indicate an increased prevalence of low back and neck pain, frequently associated with by a combination of biomechanical, environmental, and psychosocial factors (Ambrosio et al., 2023; Dos Santos et al., 2021; Moretti et al., 2020; Papalia et al., 2022; Symanzik et al., 2023). Following PRISMA guidelines, cross-sectional and review studies were analyzed, revealing increased pain prevalence in lumbar (up to 41.2%) and cervical (23.5%) regions, linked to poor ergonomics and psychosocial stress (Ambrosio et al., 2023; Moretti et al., 2020; Papalia et al., 2022). Key risk factors include non-ergonomic setups and prolonged sitting, while physical activity offers protection (Chim & Chen, 2023; Dos Santos et al., 2021; Saes-Silva et al., 2023; Symanzik et al., 2023). Interventions like regular physical activity and the use of ergonomic furniture (e.g., external keyboards, adjustable chairs) were found to be beneficial in reducing pain symptoms (Dos Santos et al., 2021; Russo et al., 2021; Symanzik et al., 2023). To mitigate these effects, it is essential to implement preventive measures focusing on ergonomic education, the provision of adequate home-office equipment, and the promotion of regular movement breaks and physical exercise (Ambrosio et al., 2023; Dos Santos et al., 2021; Russo et al., 2021; Symanzik et al., 2023).