The objective was to clarify the relationship between factors such as work type, head posture, and autonomy on neck discomfort and work productivity as the primary outcomes.
The participants were able to work from both their homes and office. Head posture and lifestyle characteristics were assessed using wearable sensor devices. Participants were instructed to wear the measurement devices for 14 days, maintain their normal routines, and complete questionnaires on neck and shoulder discomfort intensity and work productivity. We created a diagram to illustrate the correlation between work patterns, head posture, workers’ autonomy, neck discomfort, and productivity. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis.
The fit of the model showed x2=19.3, df=5, p=0.002, CFI: 0.81, AGFI: 0.85, indicating sufficient levels of fitting. Standardized estimates for the SEM showed that psychological distress positively influenced neck discomfort (β = 0.302, p 0.001), while autonomy had a negative effect (β = -0.252, p = 0.001). autonomy also positively impacted productivity (β = 0.395, p 0.001). The effect of autonomy on head posture was marginal (β = 0.138, p = 0.098), and neck discomfort had a non-significant negative effect on productivity (β = -0.136, p = 0.080).
The findings revealed that autonomy was associated with workers’ neck and shoulder discomfort and productivity during WFH, but not with human kinematics such as the neck flexion angle.
The present study demonstrates the necessity for a new approach to the design of a work system that enables employees to work autonomously, regardless of WFH, as opposed to the conventional method of coordinating workspaces. This ergonomic perspective is a necessity for physical therapists practicing occupational health going forward.
Well-being/performance
Working-from-home
