A study led by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment in the Netherlands shows home and hybrid workers have higher risks of developing musculoskeletal pain (MSP) compared to on-location workers.
The research suggests those who continuously work from home have higher risks of MSP in all body areas and those with a hybrid schedule have a higher risk of MSP in the upper back, neck, shoulders, and arms.
Researchers urge employers to take simple measures to protect their home and hybrid workers, such as providing optimally furnished workplaces and implementing software programs that promote regular movement.
MSP is associated with sleeping problems, overall fatigue, and reduced mental wellbeing.
The 'longitudinal association between working from home and musculoskeletal pain during the COVID-19 pandemic study' can be accessed here.