The association of prolonged sitting with musculoskeletal discomfort among office workers of Peshawar, Pakistan: A Cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Excessive sitting behavior is a potential hazard for a large number of adverse health outcomes. The increasing trend toward computer-based work has led to substantial sedentary time in workplace settings, especially within the office environment.  Prolonged sitting at work is recognized to have a detrimental impact on health in general. However, its precise repercussions on the musculoskeletal system are unclear. This study sought to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort in this population and to find its relationship with prolonged sitting.

Methodology: A cross-sectional design was employed, enrolling n = 200 office workers, aged 18-60 years, and with at least a year of experience using a convenience sampling. Data collection utilized the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and Pain intensity was assessed using the NPRS. Associations among variables were analyzed using the chi-square test.

Results: The mean age of participants was 34.83 ± 8.22 years, and they spent an average of 6.10 ± 1.39 hours per day seated. Overall, 88% of people reported having musculoskeletal discomfort, with the lower back being the most common site (64%). Extended sitting duration was significantly associated with musculoskeletal discomfort in the cervical (P = 0.041), elbows (P = 0.045), and wrist/hands (P = 0.002). Additionally, a significant association emerged between musculoskeletal discomfort and both gender (P = 0.023) & exercise routine (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Prolonged sitting adversely impacts the musculoskeletal system among office workers. An active working environment & short breaks during working hours are therefore recommended to reduce sitting time and ultimately the health hazard.