Musculo-skeletal and pulmonary effects of sitting position - a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction. Year after year, we spend an increasing amount of time in a sitting position. Often, we sit with poor posture, as indicated by numerous pain syndromes within the musculoskeletal system. Several reports confirm that body posture and the amount of time spent in a seated position have extensive implications for our health. Previous studies and a literature review suggest there is limited knowledge regarding an ergonomic sitting position. Objective. The aim of the study was to analyze the research relating to a proper sitting position and the consequences of incorrect sitting posture. A database search was conducted in Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar. Selection was made on the basis of titles, then abstracts and full texts of the studies. No limits were applied to the date of publication. Conclusions. Incorrect sitting posture contributes to many disorders, especially in the cervical and lumbar spine. It also determines the work of the respiratory system. Most authors suggest that maintenance of the physiological curvature of the spine is crucial for the biomechanics of the sitting position, as well as the location of the head and position of the pelvis. It raises awareness of work-related hazards and the introduction of education on the principles of proper seating. It is necessary to draw attention to the risks associated with work performed in a sitting posture, and education on the principles of ergonomical sitting.

Awareness of ergonomics for online teaching in school teachers

“…8 In a study by Szczygieł et al the findings were indicative that a typical seat to be used is the one with a backrest. 7 Individuals spend many hours in a position that is supposedly comfortable according to their knowledge but in reality affects the musculoskeletal system in many ways as evidenced by a study by Chiu et al where the neck and upper limb pain were proportional to the time of computer use and by Sumaila et al where authors stated that computer use was one of the factors causing low back pain among teachers. 7,15,16 A question which allowed multiple answers displayed images of different working postures and the participants were supposed to mark the correct ones, two third of the responses were correct while almost a third of them were incorrect (Refer Table 1 for percentages).…”

“…7 Individuals spend many hours in a position that is supposedly comfortable according to their knowledge but in reality affects the musculoskeletal system in many ways as evidenced by a study by Chiu et al where the neck and upper limb pain were proportional to the time of computer use and by Sumaila et al where authors stated that computer use was one of the factors causing low back pain among teachers. 7,15,16 A question which allowed multiple answers displayed images of different working postures and the participants were supposed to mark the correct ones, two third of the responses were correct while almost a third of them were incorrect (Refer Table 1 for percentages). Only 54% of the teachers reported to actually pay attention to their postures while working when they were specifically asked about it by Lai et al 13 Chiu et al postulated that working with a 'poking chin' posture while working on a computer might lead to substantial load over the posterior structures of the neck leading to neck pain.…”

“…12 Moreover, slump posture eliminates the natural curvature of spine and causes the an increase in the intradiscal pressures with the nucleus pulposus shifting backwards and predisposing the individuals to develop a prolapsed intervertebral disc in the long run. 7 Studies have shown that creating awareness on work related health risks are necessary and education on ergonomically correct sitting postures should be introduced but having an ergonomically conscious work culture is equally important to reduce the risks of work related MSDs. 7 A majority of 80.4% of the participants in the current study were aware about the importance of taking stretch breaks.…”

“…7 Studies have shown that creating awareness on work related health risks are necessary and education on ergonomically correct sitting postures should be introduced but having an ergonomically conscious work culture is equally important to reduce the risks of work related MSDs. 7 A majority of 80.4% of the participants in the current study were aware about the importance of taking stretch breaks. Amongst all the respondents, 75.3% knew the duration after which it should ideally be taken and the rest 24.7% thought that it could be taken after 2 or 3 hours.…”

“…Based on research done in 2009 and 2017, results highlighted a paucity of knowledge regarding an ergonomic sitting position and lack of literature on teachers' awareness of ergonomics of computer. 6,7 The preventive and educational role of physiotherapists extends their role into the society and demands continuous assessment and appraisal so as to guarantee the use of appropriate clinical skills and relevant practice. 10 Hence, this study was conducted to find out the awareness of various ergonomic principles in school teachers conducting online lectures so as to get an idea about the scope of modifications to be made in this population.…”