| Workplace Micro-Exercise for Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review |
| Paper ID : 1409-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
|
Siavash Torkashvand *1, Mojtaba Ebrahimi varkiani2, Amirhossein Vaghari gargari3 1MSc Student, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. 2Assistant Professor, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. 3. PhD student, Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. |
| Abstract |
| Background: Sedentary work is associated with high rates of musculoskeletal discomfort, especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back, creating a need for practical interventions that can be integrated into the workday. Objective: This narrative review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness of workplace micro-exercise and exercise snacks for reducing musculoskeletal pain and promoting adherence in office-based employees. Methods: Empirical studies published between 2018 and 2025 were identified through PubMed , Google Scholar , Scopus and Web of Science. Included studies were randomized, quasi-experimental, or observational, reporting interventions involving brief, intermittent bouts of physical activity (micro-exercise or exercise snacks) in occupational settings. Data were extracted on participant characteristics, exercise protocols (duration, frequency, intensity), musculoskeletal pain outcomes, feasibility, and employee acceptance. Results: Across studies, short bouts or daily brief sessions performed over several weeks consistently reduced region-specific musculoskeletal symptoms, particularly in the cervical, shoulder, and lumbopelvic regions. Interventions requiring minimal equipment, such as elastic-band exercises or stair climbing, showed higher acceptance and adherence among employees. Integrating these exercises into work hours facilitated participation without disrupting workflow and contributed to positive perceptions of exercise feasibility. Evidence suggests both short-term relief and sustained reductions in discomfort over multi-week programs. Study limitations included variability in design, sample size, and pain assessment methods. Conclusion: Workplace micro-exercise is a feasible and low-cost strategy to reduce musculoskeletal pain among sedentary employees. Implementing brief, equipment-light bouts during the workday can enhance adherence and maintain benefits. Future research should focus on standardizing protocols, systematically evaluating pain outcomes, and identifying effective strategies for long-term implementation across diverse occupational environments. |
| Keywords |
| Micro-exercise, Workplace health , Musculoskeletal disorders. |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
