Consequences of prolonged sedentary work during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has reduced physical activity and increased the time spent sitting. Combined with the lack of ergonomics at home workplaces, the risk of discomfort has increased, especially around the cervical spine and upper limbs. Evaluation of the mentioned problem is the subject of the study. Methods: The study used an original questionnaire based on the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The analysis used responses from people who reported discomfort in the form of tingling or numbness in the cervical spine, shoulder, elbow and wrist during the pandemic. Statistical analysis of the results was carried out to formulate conclusions. In addition, individual data were presented as percentages. Results: Considering the working time exceeding 8 hours a day, discomfort in the wrist joint area was most often reported among people working remotely (15.1%). Shoulder complex discomfort was the most common symptom (22%) reported by people working more than 8 hours a day, under the age of 31. In young people, the risk of discomfort in the shoulder, hand and cervical spine area increased. Conclusions: Extended working time is conducive to the appearance of symptoms within the hands. In future studies, it will be necessary to analyze the ergonomic factors responsible for this phenomenon.