Low Back Pain at Work: Myths, Facts and What Employers Should Know

Low Back Pain – Myths & Reality for Employees and Employers

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions among employees and a leading cause of reduced work performance and sickness absence. Despite this, many misconceptions around low back pain still persist, often leading to poor management at both an individual and organisational level.

In this article, we clarify what is scientifically supported regarding low back pain in the workplace and how it can be managed effectively.

What is low back pain and why it matters at work

Low back pain does not only affect individuals involved in heavy manual work. On the contrary, it is frequently reported among office-based employees, particularly in work environments characterised by prolonged sitting, limited movement, and suboptimal ergonomics.

How common is low back pain among office and desk-based workers

Most employees will experience at least one episode of low back pain during their working life. In the majority of cases, this is classified as non-specific low back pain, without serious structural pathology, yet it can significantly affect daily function and work ability.

How sedentary work and prolonged sitting affect the lower back

Prolonged immobility, lack of movement breaks, and repetitive suboptimal postures can increase loading on the lumbar spine and reduce the endurance of supporting muscles.

Common myths about low back pain

According to research findings, a large proportion of participants held the following beliefs, which are inconsistent with current scientific evidence:

• 49.3%: “If you have low back pain, you will always have weakness in that area”
• 48%: “Low back pain will progressively worsen over time”
• 41.4%: “Rest and inactivity are the best solutions”
• 54.2%: “X-rays are necessary for optimal medical treatment”

What does the science say – The reality behind the myths

• Low back pain is often temporary and can be effectively managed with appropriate care.
• Exercise and strengthening play a key role in pain relief and prevention.
• Excessive rest and inactivity may worsen symptoms – movement is beneficial.
• Imaging such as X-rays is recommended only in specific clinical circumstances (e.g. to rule out serious pathology) and there is no evidence that imaging alone leads to better outcomes.

How low back pain at work affects performance and absence

Presenteeism: working while in pain – Many employees continue working despite experiencing pain, often with reduced concentration, energy levels, and productivity.

Sickness absence and organisational impact – When low back pain is not addressed in a timely and appropriate manner, it may lead to increased sickness absence and higher operational costs for organisations.

Managing low back pain at work: prevention and support

Occupational health physiotherapy focuses not only on pain management but also on maintaining function and preventing recurrence.

The Workplace Physiocare approach to low back pain at work

At Workplace Physiocare, low back pain is managed within the context of work. Interventions are delivered by an occupational health physiotherapist, following Occupational Health principles and tailored to the needs of each organisation.

When should employers intervene

• Frequent reports of pain among employees
• Increased sickness absence
• Extensive remote or hybrid working
• Workplace or equipment changes

Early intervention is consistently more effective than managing long-term or chronic conditions.

Next steps for your organisation

If low back pain is a recurring issue within your organisation, targeted ergonomic assessment and occupational health support can make a meaningful difference.

Get in touch with us to explore how we can support your team.

References:

1. Hall A, Coombs D, Richmond H, et al. What do the general public believe about the causes, prognosis and best management strategies for low back pain? A cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health. 2021;21(1):682. Published 2021 Apr 8. doi:10.1186/s12889-021-10664-5
2. Lateef H, Patel D. What is the role of imaging in acute low back pain?. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2009;2(2):69-73. doi:10.1007/s12178-008-9037-0
3. O’Sullivan PB, Caneiro JP, O’Sullivan K, et al. Back to basics: 10 facts every person should know about back pain. Br J Sports Med. 2020;54(12):698-699. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2019-101611