JOEM: Association Between Abrupt Change to Teleworking and Physical...(Jan 2022)-JOEM: Association Between Abrupt Change to Teleworking and Physical...(Jan 2022)

JOEM: Association Between Abrupt Change to Teleworking and Physical...(Jan 2022)

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A study conducted in Japan investigated the association between the frequency of telework and physical symptoms experienced by workers during the COVID-19 emergency declaration. Data was collected from 1648 workers via web-based self-reported questionnaires. The study found that workers who teleworked for more days per week experienced a higher prevalence of physical symptoms compared to non-teleworkers. Specifically, telework frequency was significantly associated with stiff shoulders, eyestrain, and low back pain. Workers who teleworked for 5 or more days per week had higher odds of experiencing these symptoms compared to non-teleworkers.<br /><br />The study suggests that the increased sitting time, decreased physical activity, and poor work environment associated with telework could contribute to the development of physical symptoms. Increased sitting time can lead to musculoskeletal problems, while extended use of visual display terminals can cause eyestrain. Prolonged sitting can also result in low back pain. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of taking frequent breaks and reducing sitting time to prevent the development of physical symptoms. It recommends that teleworkers stand regularly and engage in light-intensity walking breaks to counteract the negative effects of sedentary behavior. Increasing leisure physical activity, such as walking, is also recommended.<br /><br />The study highlights the need for adequate education and support to help workers adapt to telework and maintain a healthy work environment. It suggests that companies should provide office chairs with armrests, external monitors, keyboards, and computer mice to ensure the comfort and well-being of teleworkers. The study concludes that workers who abruptly start teleworking may experience more physical symptoms and calls for careful monitoring of their health.

Keywords

telework

physical symptoms

COVID-19

workers

sitting time

eyestrain

low back pain

sedentary behavior

work environment

health monitoring