Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are on the rise, driven by sedentary desk jobs, tech dependence, and the hybrid work revolution. While regular desk breaks have long been touted as a remedy, recent research by AJ Products reveals that movement alone doesn’t prevent pain.

Facility managers need to begin rethinking how spaces are designed. Without proper ergonomic support, posture deteriorates, even in environments that encourage frequent breaks.

The New Approach: Designing for Wellbeing

As Helen Beebe, UK Managing Director of AJ Products, shared with Facilities Management Journal, workload pressures often tether employees to their desks, reducing natural movement. Video calls replace walks to colleagues’ desks, and quick coffee runs don’t allow time for posture correction.

Modern employees frequently report working over three hours without a break. This is especially concerning for remote workers, who top the charts in back, neck, and shoulder complaints, and for hybrid staff navigating inconsistent workstations between home and office.

Beebe suggests, “Encouraging a culture of movement, such as standing during meetings or using sit-stand desks, helps workers adopt healthier postures naturally. Consistency in ergonomic support across all work locations is essential.”

Root Causes: Rethinking Traditional Office Layouts

MSDs are often rooted in outdated office designs, focused initially on space efficiency rather than human health. Hot-desking, compressed work areas, and static seating arrangements continue to dominate — at the expense of employee wellbeing.

Beebe emphasises the importance of creating spaces that support natural movement:

• Flexible layouts that encourage shifting positions
• Designated break areas that make resting the norm, not the exception
• Centralised amenities (like recycling bins or coffee stations) to prompt light activity
• Movement zones for standing meetings or creative breaks
   

Small changes can lead to long-term benefits.

Women and Ergonomics: A Growing Concern

One of the most notable findings from the research is that women are 1.5 times more likely than men to experience daily musculoskeletal pain. Although the exact causes are not yet fully understood, several contributing factors are being considered.

Biological differences, including variations in muscle mass and posture, as well as hormonal influences on connective tissues, may increase susceptibility. Additionally, many workstation designs are based on anthropometric data tailored to male body dimensions, which can result in poor ergonomic alignment for female employees. 

Higher reported levels of stress and burnout among women—both known contributors to chronic pain—may further exacerbate the issue.

Furnishing the Future: Ergonomics in Action

Modern ergonomic furniture features adjustable components to accommodate a wide range of body types, including 4D armrests and height-adjustable stools. Sit-stand desks have become popular, but facility managers are now introducing under-desk bikes, wobble stools, and active seating to encourage movement throughout the day.

Given that the average person spends around 90,000 hours at work in a lifetime, the need for healthier environments is pressing. Sedentary behaviour not only leads to MSDs but also contributes to metabolic issues, poor circulation, and slower cognitive function.

The future of workplace design is not just about efficiency; it’s about health, equity, and long-term sustainability.

More: 
B+N.hu

 

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