Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Health Disorders (WRMSDs) in IT Professionals Working from Home

Abstract Background and Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed work practices globally, with a substantial increase in remote working among Information Technology (IT) professionals. Prolonged computer use, static postures, and non-ergonomic home setups have led to a rising incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of WRMSDs among IT professionals working from home and to identify the most affected body regions. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among IT professionals from various companies in and around Bangalore, Karnataka, over a 75-day period. Data were collected via a structured Google Form incorporating the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and demographic details. A total of 118 eligible participants aged 21–55 years were included. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 365 and IBM SPSS v26.0, employing descriptive statistics including mean, median, standard deviation (SD), and interquartile range (IQR). Results: The mean age of participants was 29.4 ± 7.98 years (median = 28; IQR = 10). The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms over the past 12 months was highest in the lower back (57.7%) and neck (55.3%), followed by the upper back (48.8%) and hips/thighs (32.5%). The 7-day prevalence also showed predominant lower back (41.5%) and neck pain (31.7%). About 28.5% of respondents reported pain severe enough to restrict daily activities. Conclusion: WRMSDs particularly neck and low back pain are highly prevalent among IT professionals working from home. These findings emphasize the urgent need for ergonomic interventions, posture education, and physiotherapy-led preventive programs to safeguard musculoskeletal health in remote work environments.