How office jobs can create health challenges

We spend a huge part of our lives at work (roughly one third, to be precise), and for many of us that means long stretches at a desk. It might not seem as risky as working on a building site or in a factory, but office jobs can quietly take their toll on our bodies and minds. From stiff shoulders and tired eyes to stress and burnout, the impact is real.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common health and wellbeing challenges office workers face…

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The hidden health risks of office work

• Aches and pains that linger – back, neck and shoulder discomfort from sitting too long or working at a poorly set-up desk.
• Repetitive strain niggles – wrist, hand and forearm issues from hours tapping away at a keyboard or mouse.
• Screen fatigue – tired eyes, headaches and that fuzzy feeling after staring at a monitor all day.
• Posture under pressure – poor posture and reduced mobility when breaks and stretches are skipped.
• Running on empty – low energy and fatigue driven by stress, poor sleep or lack of movement.
• Stress overload – high workloads, tight deadlines and blurred boundaries between work and life.
• The mental health toll – anxiety or low mood triggered by pressure, isolation or personal challenges.
• Too much sitting, not enough moving – falling short on the daily activity our bodies need.
• Disconnected and distant – feelings of isolation, especially in hybrid or remote setups.

The good news? With a bit of planning and the right support, many of these issues can be prevented – helping your people stay healthy, connected and productive, wherever they’re working.

Prioritise mental health

Office pressures can have a real impact on mental wellbeing – and for those working remotely, feelings of isolation can make this even harder to manage. In 2022/23, an estimated 875,000 UK workers experienced work-related stress, depression, or anxiety, resulting in 17.1 million working days lost.

At Medigold Health, we know that supporting mental health isn’t just good for your people – it’s vital for your business. Making wellbeing a year-round priority, building regular check-ins into team routines, and equipping managers to spot early signs of stress all help create a culture where employees feel comfortable reaching out.

Backing this up with practical support, such as an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), counselling, and easy access to resources, ensures your teams know exactly where to turn for help – creating a healthier, happier, and more resilient workforce.

Invest in ergonomic design

Back pain, neck strain, and repetitive strain injuries are some of the most common health complaints in office environments – and they’re even more prevalent among employees working from home, where workstations are often less than ideal.

Poor posture, awkward desk setups, and spending hours sitting without adequate breaks can all contribute to musculoskeletal discomfort and long-term injury. Employers can significantly reduce these risks by investing in ergonomic design, such as height-adjustable desks, supportive chairs, and thoughtfully planned office layouts that promote movement.

Regular Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments – both in the office and for remote workers – ensure each employee’s workstation is tailored to their needs. Combined with simple measures like encouraging stretch breaks and offering ergonomic training, these steps not only protect physical health but also enhance comfort, focus, and productivity.

Encourage breaks

Long hours in front of a screen can quickly take their toll, leading to eye strain, headaches, and fatigue, while remaining seated for extended periods can impact circulation, posture, and overall musculoskeletal health.

Over time, these habits can contribute to more serious issues such as repetitive strain injuries or chronic back pain. Employers can play a key role in reducing these risks by carrying out regular Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments to ensure workstations are set up correctly, promoting short but frequent screen breaks, and encouraging staff to move regularly throughout the day.

Even small adjustments – like introducing standing or walking meetings, setting up gentle stretch reminders, or providing ergonomic equipment – can help maintain energy levels, improve comfort, and support long-term health and productivity.

Schedule some social time

Building regular opportunities for your team to connect outside of day-to-day tasks can make a real difference to workplace wellbeing. Whether it’s a short mid-morning coffee break, a shared lunch, or a monthly team activity, these moments of social connection help to reduce stress, boost morale, and strengthen working relationships.