In the fast-paced world of modern business, prioritising employee wellbeing is not only ethically sound but also a strategic move that drives organisational success and sustainability in the long term.
However, one significant barrier to employee engagement across industries is back pain—a pervasive issue that requires attention from HR professionals and business leaders alike.
The statistics paint a sobering picture: in 2020, 619 million people worldwide suffered from lower back pain, and this number is projected to grow to 843 million by 2050. Alarmingly, this affliction affects employees of all ages, with studies showing that the prevalence of lower back pain increases with age.
More than just a minor inconvenience
Back pain is a critical health concern that can impact employee engagement and satisfaction. From my professional experience as a Pilates and mobility coach, I’ve observed that many individuals turn to exercise to address back pain and joint stiffness, seeking to improve their overall lifestyle.
The impact on businesses is substantial.
However, it’s important for HR professionals to understand that there are no quick fixes. For instance, if an employee has a specific diagnosis, such as a herniated disc, they must follow the appropriate movement guidelines to avoid worsening their condition.
While there’s a stereotype that office work inherently leads to back problems, the reality is that it’s not the office work itself but the lack of movement that poses a risk.
Recent studies indicate that sitting in one position for extended periods, even if it’s a ‘good’ posture, can lead to muscle tension.
To mitigate this, HR professionals should encourage frequent movement breaks and promote regular intervals of diaphragmatic breathing throughout the workday. These practices can help employees release muscle tension and reduce stress, contributing to overall wellbeing.
Back pain ranks among the top reasons for absenteeism in the workplace, leading to millions of lost workdays each year. Additionally, the indirect costs associated with back pain, including reduced productivity and potential employee turnover, can be substantial.
By proactively addressing this issue, HR professionals can play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy, engaged workforce.
Back to the roots
The rise of back pain in the workplace can be attributed to various factors, with the sedentary nature of many modern jobs being a primary contributor.
Prolonged sitting, repetitive tasks, workplace stress, and lack of ergonomic support exacerbate the issue, leading to chronic pain and discomfort among employees.
The impact on businesses is substantial. Recent estimates suggest that back pain costs the American economy between $560 to $635 billion annually.
Additionally, Americans spend approximately $50 billion each year on healthcare expenses related to back pain, making it the sixth most expensive health problem.
Alarmingly, 15% of all work absences among employees are attributed to back pain.
Performance and wellbeing
Back pain significantly affects employee wellbeing and overall job performance. Individuals with chronic pain may experience discomfort even while sitting, leading to heightened irritability, stress levels, and reduced motivation. This, in turn, can diminish their work performance and productivity.
These factors contribute to decreased job satisfaction and motivation, potentially affecting mental health.
Chronic pain may increase the risk of depression or anxiety, while work-related stress and burnout can also lead to physical discomfort. Together, these issues can severely impair work performance.
Investing in health and wellness programs is not merely an act of altruism
To combat this, modern businesses are investing heavily in wellness policies, offering employees standing desks, ergonomic chairs, massages, free gym memberships, and subscriptions to health-and-fitness apps.
These initiatives are crucial for supporting employee wellbeing within the constraints of the allocated budget.
Tailoring and adapting
However, it’s important to remember that back pain is multifactorial, and interventions like exercise should be tailored to address the underlying causes rather than just alleviate the symptoms.
As an exercise practitioner and trainer, I guide my clients to better understand their bodies and align exercise with any diagnosis or condition they may have while helping them reach their personal goals.
While it’s challenging to implement such personalised care on a large scale, advancements in technology and AI are paving the way for ‘mass personalisation’—solutions that cater to individual needs without incurring exorbitant costs.
Back pain VS engaged employees: Who wins?
Research has consistently shown that organisations with comprehensive health and wellness programs experience lower rates of absenteeism, higher employee retention, and increased engagement.
By investing in employee wellness, companies not only enhance their bottom line but also cultivate a culture of wellbeing and high performance.
Interviews with HR professionals frequently reveal that employees who feel supported in their health and wellness are more likely to stay with their employers long-term. This reduces turnover costs and ensures continuity within the organisation.
When employees feel supported, they remain engaged and focused, leading to increased productivity and overall performance. Ultimately, this contributes to a healthier bottom line for businesses, as they benefit from a more motivated and engaged workforce.
HR for people or businesses
HR professionals play a crucial role in addressing back pain in the workplace. Implementing ergonomic solutions such as adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and proper workstation setups can significantly mitigate back pain among employees.
However, it’s important to recognise that a chair alone is not the foundation of a healthy back; regular movement breaks, along with exercise and mindfulness habits tailored to individual needs, are essential.
Investing in health and wellness programs is not merely an act of altruism; it’s a strategic decision with tangible benefits for both employers and employees.
By prioritising health and fostering a culture of wellbeing, businesses can enhance employees’ lives and cultivate engaged, thriving teams.
