IMPACT OF WORK ENVIRONMENT ON NECK PAIN IN ADULT POPULATION

Background: Neck pain is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints affecting the adult population, particularly those engaged in sedentary occupations. With the rise in computer-based jobs, poor posture and prolonged sitting have emerged as significant contributors to cervical discomfort. This study was designed to assess the prevalence and severity of neck pain among employees working in software houses, offices, and other high-risk occupational environments in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Objective: To determine the prevalence and severity of neck pain among adult employees working in various occupational settings in Bahawalpur. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over a duration of three months. A total of 192 participants were recruited using a convenience sampling technique from occupations identified as high-risk, including software professionals, office staff, healthcare workers, drivers, and factory workers. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and the intensity of neck pain was evaluated using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), where participants rated their pain on a scale from 0 to 10. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with findings presented in frequencies and percentages. Results: Out of 192 participants, 147 (76.6%) were aged 21–30 years, and 45 (23.4%) were aged 31–40 years. The sample included 124 (64.6%) males and 68 (35.4%) females. Overall, 131 participants (68.2%) reported experiencing neck pain. Among them, 70 (36.5%) reported mild pain, 51 (26.6%) had moderate pain, and 10 (5.2%) experienced severe or worst pain. A total of 61 (31.8%) participants reported no pain. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of neck pain among employees working in sedentary occupations in Bahawalpur, with mild pain being the most frequently reported. These findings underline the need for ergonomic awareness and preventive strategies in workplace settings.