Study on the Impact of Work from Home Culture on the Physical Health of Urban Women: A Special Reference to Patna District

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic induced an abrupt shift to Work from Home (WFH) culture, significantly impacting the lives of urban women, especially in developing regions like Patna, Bihar. This study investigates the physical health challenges experienced by 500 urban women (250 homemakers and 250 working women) during the WFH period, using structured questionnaires and interview methods. Findings reveal that both groups reported substantial health issues, though the nature and prevalence varied. Working women experienced higher incidences of stress-induced conditions such as back pain (71.20%), shoulder pain (66.40%), and headaches (74.00%), primarily due to prolonged screen time, multitasking, and poor ergonomics. Conversely, homemakers were more vulnerable to chronic health concerns like anemia (25.20%), diabetes (24.00%), and breathing problems (49.20%), often attributed to nutritional neglect, household stress, and lack of healthcare access. Eye-related issues such as pain, watering, and dryness were common among both groups, with working women slightly more affected. Foot-related problems, including heel pain and swelling, were higher among homemakers, while working women reported more tingling sensations—indicative of sedentary strain. The study underscores the importance of targeted health interventions, awareness programs, ergonomic education, and policy-level support to safeguard women’s physical health in both professional and domestic environments. It also advocates for the inclusion of gender-sensitive strategies in public health policies, especially post-pandemic.