Challenges for Teleworkers Living With Pain Related to Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Qualitative Study.
Quan Nha Hong1, Marietta Kersalé, Noémiah Aurélie Vincent
1From the School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada (Q.N.H., É.M., A.H.); Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal (CRIR)-Institut universitaire sur la réadaptation en déficience physique de Montréal (IURDPM), Montréal, Canada (Q.N.H., M.K., N.A.V., J.L., A.H.); and Department of Occupational Therapy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Drummonville, Canada (A.L.).
Teleworkers with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) face challenges in their work environment and task performance. Despite pain, they value telework flexibility, highlighting a need for better health-focused policies.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Ergonomics
- Remote Work Studies
Background:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a prevalent health issue among teleworkers.
- Understanding the specific challenges faced by teleworkers with MSDs is crucial for workplace well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the occupational challenges encountered by teleworkers experiencing pain related to MSDs.
- To identify factors influencing the ability of teleworkers with MSDs to perform their jobs.
Main Methods:
- Interpretative qualitative descriptive approach.
- Semi-structured interviews with 15 teleworkers in Quebec, Canada.
- Participants had experienced MSD-related pain within the past year.
Main Results:
- Teleworkers with MSDs face challenges in physical and social work environments, task execution, and time management.
- Increased pain did not deter participants from teleworking due to its perceived flexibility.
- Key themes included environmental, social, task-related, and time management challenges.
Conclusions:
- Telework interventions and policies must be enhanced to support the health and well-being of teleworkers with MSDs.
- Addressing MSD-related pain is essential for sustainable telework practices.
- The findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach to telework flexibility and employee health.
