ERGONOMICS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL HEALTH: A PHYSIOTHERAPY APPROACH TO MENTAL WELL-BEING IN ONLINE LEARNERS

Abstract

The quick transfer from offline learning to online learning has restructured educational environments, creating both opportunities and challenges for students’ physical and mental health. Poor ergonomics, prolonged screen exposure, and sedentary behaviour have led to an increase in discomfort, including musculoskeletal, postural deviations, and mental strain among learners. This chapter traverses the relationship between ergonomics, musculoskeletal health, and mental well-being, emphasizing the preventive and rehabilitative role of physiotherapy. The recent studies display that there is a high prevalence of neck, shoulder, and back pain among online learners, often associated with stress and reduced quality of life. Physiotherapy interventions and rehabilitation, including correction of posture, stretching, ergonomic education, and online exercise programs, have shown promising results in alleviating pain and improving both physical and psychological well-being. By assimilating ergonomic principles into online education, physiotherapists can contribute significantly to promoting holistic health and academic performance among students.