Workplace exercise program characteristics associated with musculoskeletal pain reduction in sedentary workers: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v82.119776Keywords:
workplace exercise; musculoskeletal pain; sedentary workersAbstract
Introduction: Sedentary office work is associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged sitting and low levels of physical activity. Although workplace exercise interventions have shown favorable results, the associated characteristics remain unclear.
Objective: To synthesize the evidence on workplace exercise interventions to reduce musculoskeletal pain in sedentary workers and to identify the characteristics linked to favorable outcomes.
Methodology: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies were searched in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and EBSCO up to January 2024. Exercise interventions in sedentary workers were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the tools of the National Institutes of Health, and due to heterogeneity, the results were summarized narratively.
Results: Thirty-eight publications corresponding to 25 interventions developed in 13 countries were included. Overall, the interventions were associated with reductions in musculoskeletal pain, particularly in symptomatic workers. Strength training showed the most consistent evidence. Recurring characteristics included progressive resistance training, 10–12 week programs, short sessions several times a week, and high adherence. Most studies were of moderate to high methodological quality.
Conclusions: Workplace exercise interventions represent a promising strategy for reducing musculoskeletal pain in sedentary workers. This review does not identify an optimal prescription, but rather recurring characteristics that can guide the design and implementation of future programs.
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