Remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic: Computer-related musculoskeletal symptoms in university staff

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in mandatory remote working for workers in many sectors, including education.

This study aimed to investigate the physical characteristics of workspaces, computer use, and prevalence, associated factors, and reported impact of computer-related musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) among university staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A cross-sectional study of staff in a university in Ireland was conducted in March 2021. An anonymous online survey of computer use, work practices and 3-month prevalence and the reported impact of computer-related MSS (modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire) was conducted. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and relationships were tested using chi-squared analysis.

The analysis included 1045 responses. The majority (63%) worked solely from home, used a laptop more frequently than a desktop computer, and worked a greater number of hours. Almost half (48%) did not have a dedicated home workspace. More respondents reported their university workspace (72%) was more comfortable than their home workspace (51.2%) (p < 0.0001). Prevalence of computer-related MSS was 83% : neck (62%), shoulder (57%), lower back (47%). Laptop-related MSS was reported more frequently (82%) than desktop-related MSS (65%) (p < 0.05). Computer-related MSS was associated with workspace, equipment at home, laptop use, female gender, and righthandedness (p < 0.05). A reduction in non-work-related activities (35%), work activities (18%) and seeking medical attention (24%) was reported.

The prevalence of computer-related MSS was high and associated with remote working. Further studies that aim to mitigate the risks of computer-related MSS in those working remotely or in hybrid models are required.