Abstract

Background: Sedentary behavior and prolonged computer use are common among office workers and may contribute to upper back pain through prolonged sitting, poor posture, low physical activity, and inadequate ergonomics. However, evidence on upper back pain among sedentary office workers in Bangladesh remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to determine its prevalence and assess associations with selected sociodemographic, occupational, and lifestyle factors. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 272 sedentary office workers at Bangladesh Medical University, Dhaka, from July 2025 to June 2026. Sociodemographic and occupational data were collected through interviews and clinical assessment. Upper back pain was assessed using a 10-point Numerical Rating Scale. Associations were analyzed using the chi-square test and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals; p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among 272 sedentary office workers, upper back pain was reported by 108 (39.7%), with moderate pain being most common. Pain was significantly more prevalent among females, those with >5 years of office work, sitting or computer use ≥6 hours/day, no regular exercise, and no/occasional sitting breaks. Higher odds were observed for female sex (OR 1.78), >5 years of office work (OR 1.88), prolonged sitting (OR 1.81), no regular exercise (OR 2.41), and no/occasional breaks (OR 2.26), indicating important occupational and lifestyle associations. Conclusion: Upper back pain was common among sedentary office workers, with prolonged sitting, longer office work duration, lack of regular exercise, and inadequate sitting breaks showing important associations. Promoting ergonomic practices, regular physical activity, and frequent breaks may help reduce the burden of upper back pain and improve workplace health.

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