The sedentary business of telemedicine: A review of ergonomic interventions for physicians working from home and recommendations to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract

Previous investigations of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and proper ergonomics in physicians have largely focused on interventionalists and surgeons, given the nature of their jobs. However, with the societal shift toward increased desk work and the widespread adoption of telemedicine, it is essential to examine the ergonomic challenges associated with remote care. Understanding and addressing these factors is critical to prevent musculoskeletal (MSK) strain among physicians and to ensure they can continue delivering high-quality patient care in the long run. Therefore, the goal of this review is to summarize recent interventions targeting ergonomic workspace improvements to mitigate WMSD in physicians practicing telemedicine. A database search was conducted in August 2024 using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus. Studies published in the last 15 years were included if they examined adults in interventional designs measuring musculoskeletal outcomes or sitting time. A total of 47 studies met the inclusion criteria, exploring various ergonomic interventions including: ergonomic training, active workstations, exercise programs, standing desks, backrests, ergonomic chairs, forearm supports, head-alignment devices, and biofeedback devices. Most studies had a positive impact on WMSD. This review highlights the importance of integrating movement, posture optimization, and personalized workspace adjustments to alleviate MSK discomfort and enhance workplace health for physicians.

Plain language summary

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many physicians have increased the use of telemedicine and video visits. This change means more time spent sitting and working at a computer, similar to other office and remote workers. Unfortunately, this prolonged sedentary time and screen time often leads to pain and discomfort in the muscles and joints. These issues are known as work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), and they commonly affect the back, neck, shoulders, and wrists. This review looked at recent research on how to improve workspaces for physicians practicing telemedicine, both at home and in clinics, to reduce their risk of WMSD. We reviewed 47 studies published over the past 15 years that looked at different ways to improve the workspaces of remote and office workers. The studies included a variety of solutions, including standing desks, ergonomic chairs, monitor and keyboard adjustments, biofeedback tools to improve posture, and scheduled movement or exercise breaks. Many of these strategies helped reduce pain, improve posture, and make workers feel more comfortable during long workdays. While the studies looked at remote workers in general, these same suggestions can be applied to physicians practicing telemedicine. One key takeaway is that combining different strategies—such as taking regular breaks, adjusting one's computer setup, and providing education on healthy workspace adjustments—is most effective. More research is needed to better understand how to support physicians practicing telemedicine, especially since many may not have access to ergonomic equipment at home. Helping physicians stay healthy at their workstations is important not just for their comfort, but also for their ability to care for patients effectively in the long run.