Computer use duration and body mass index as risk factors for arm,neck,and shoulder complaints among regular computer-using workers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

A growing body of evidence suggests that a combination of physical, psychological, and environmental factors increases the likelihood of experiencing complaints related to the arm, neck, and/or shoulder (CANS), although the precise nature of these relationships and their potential long-term effects remain uncertain.

Objective

To synthesize evidence from prospective cohort studies investigating the risk factors associated with the development of CANS among workers who use computers.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to identify prospective cohort studies published between January 2010 and 2025. Eligible studies investigated risk factors of CANS among workers using computers, with a follow-up period of at least one year. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using Cochran's Q test and the I² statistic.

Results

Two studies indicated a low risk of bias, while the remaining studies were assessed as having a moderate risk. For overall exposures, the correlation with the prevalence of CANS was the duration of using computers or mouse >4 h/day and BMI, with RR = 1.25 (95% CI: 1.08–1.44) and 1.05 (95% CI: 1.02–1.08), respectively.

Conclusion

Prolonged computer use and higher body mass index were significant predictors of CANS, and the findings highlight the importance of ergonomic interventions and health promotion strategies to reduce work-related musculoskeletal complaints in sedentary occupational environments.