Work from home pain: Why it’s worse than office pain

Working from home seems more comfortable but for many people, it’s actually worse on the body.

What changed:

At home, most setups are:

• Improvised (kitchen tables, couches, beds)

• Less structured

• More relaxed (in a way that hurts long-term)

And without the natural movement of an office environment, you often stay in one position longer.

Common problems we see:

• Neck pain from looking down at laptops

• Lower back pain from unsupported seating

• Shoulder tension from poor desk height

• Less movement throughout the day

Why it adds up faster:

At home:

• Breaks are less structured

• Boundaries between work and rest blur

• You may work longer hours without realizing it

What helps:

• Set up a dedicated workspace (even a simple one)

• Elevate your screen to eye level

• Use a chair with support or add cushions

• Schedule intentional movement breaks

Small changes make a big difference over time.

If working from home is starting to cause pain, we can help you optimize your setup and movement so you stay comfortable and productive.