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Research Paper | Public Health | Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026 | Pages: 545 - 552 | India
Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Discomfort Among Desk Workers: A CMDQ-Based Ergonomic Assessment
Abstract: Prolonged sitting is now a routine part of academic and professional life, often resulting in back discomfort, muscle stiffness, and long-term musculoskeletal problems. Desk workers frequently remain in static postures for extended periods, which can place continuous strain on the spine and surrounding muscles, causing discomfort in areas such as the neck, shoulders, lower back, and wrists. Each With an increasing number of individuals working in corporate environments, prolonged desk work has become increasingly common. This situation highlights the need for effective back support solutions that help maintain proper spinal alignment, reduce pressure on the lower back, and provide comfortable thermal support during long working hours. The study adopted a mixed-method research design involving 160 desk-based office workers selected through random sampling. Data were collected using a self-constructed questionnaire, a symptom and severity checklist, and the Cornell Modified Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) to assess region-wise musculoskeletal discomfort. Each interview and questionnaire administration required approximately 20-25 minutes per participant, ensuring adequate time to record responses and assess discomfort patterns accurately. The CMDQ findings revealed a noticeable prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort among desk workers, particularly in the lower back, neck, and shoulder regions. A significant proportion of participants reported experiencing moderate to frequent discomfort during prolonged working hours, which was commonly associated with sustained sitting postures, limited movement, and insufficient ergonomic support at the workstation. The results further highlight the growing ergonomic challenges faced by desk-based employees in the workplace environment.
Keywords: Ergonomics, Prolonged Sitting, Musculoskeletal Discomfort, Lumbar Support, Cornell Modified Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ)
How to Cite?: Mariyah Laljee, Roopa Rao, "Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Discomfort Among Desk Workers: A CMDQ-Based Ergonomic Assessment", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 545-552, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26507222821, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26507222821