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The Role of Physiotherapy in Ergonomics by Physiotherapist Ava Sukhoo

  • Writer: physiohillcrest
    physiohillcrest
  • Apr 21
  • 3 min read

In today’s world, where many of us spend long hours at desks, on computers, or performing repetitive tasks, the importance of ergonomics cannot be overstated. The goal is to create a safe, comfortable environment that prevents injuries and adapts to existing musculoskeletal problems. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders remain one of the leading causes of occupational absenteeism and or reduced work capacity (Fatima, 2026).

 

Good ergonomics can help:

  •        Improve health and safety

  •        Increase comfort and decreased pain

  •         Boost productivity and efficiency

  •         Enhance overall quality of life

 

A 2025 study (Etuknwa et al., 2025) on dental practitioners found that physiotherapy‑based ergonomic and postural‑correction interventions significantly reduced neck and lower‑back related disability and improved functional performance, showing that ergonomic education and posture exercises can produce better outcomes than exercise alone.

What is Ergonomics?

Simply put, the word ergonomics means ‘The science of work’ (International Ergonomics and Human Factors Association). ‘The scientific study of people and their working conditions, in order to improve effectiveness’ (The Role of Physiotherapy in Ergonomics, 2022).

Physical Ergonomics is related to human anatomical, physiological and biomechanical characteristics, such as posture (working/stationary), work place layout, repetitive moment and or work related/home musculoskeletal disorders.

What is the role of Physiotherapy in Ergonomics:

Physiotherapy, with its focus on the musculoskeletal system, plays a significant role in improving ergonomics. As Physiotherapists we aim to enhance ergonomics within our scope of practice, given our field of study in human movement and musculoskeletal health we can assist in the following ways:

1)    Workplace/Home Assessments

We assess your activities of daily living and the environments in which they are performed, identifying ergonomic risks related to posture, movement, and equipment use. We recommend changes and adaptations to improve  safety and comfort for your body.

2)    Ergonomic Training/Education

We provide health education and demonstrate correct ergonomic techniques during your physiotherapy session or at your office. This helps you understand how your body’s biomechanics work and how to move safely and confidently in everyday life.

3)    Injury Prevention and Management

Identifying potential risks to your musculoskeletal system is a key part of your physiotherapy session. By spotting early signs of strain or discomfort, we can intervene before more serious problems develop.  

4)    Home exercise programmes

Regular exercises and stretches are always advised for improving and maintaining muscle power, joint mobility and stability. We develop individualised exercise programmes for each patient, targeting areas prone to strain or discomfort, to support their long term musculoskeletal health and wellness.


Ergonomics Tips for sitting at a desk:


Image reproduced with permission from Ergotherapy https://ergotherapy.co.za
Image reproduced with permission from Ergotherapy https://ergotherapy.co.za

 

How can you lift a heavy object without straining your back?

A recent literature review of biomechanical risks of manual lifting and load handling, with suitable techniques for prioritising safety, was conducted for the years 2019-2024 (Leite et., 2026). The body of research showed that trunk flexion, twisting, heavy or repetitive lifting, and poor working conditions significantly increase the risk of low‑back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders. Ergonomic solutions such as using assistive devices, adjusting lift height, reducing frequency, and applying proper lifting techniques can substantially reduce these risks.

 

 

 

Ergonomics Tips for lifting heavy objects:

1. Do not twist or turn your body while lifting a load.

2. Do not attempt to carry a load that is too heavy or too large.

3. Do not lift an object above shoulder level.

4. Bad grip risks dropping the item.

5. Obstructing your vision while carrying a load increases risk of injury.

If you require any further guidance or information or need assistance with your office ergonomics, contact Debbie Cameron Physiotherapy on 031 765 8898. A physiotherapist is available to do an office assessment.

 

References

(n.d.). Retrieved from International Ergonomics and Human Factors Association https://iea.cc/about/what-is-ergonomics/

 Etuknwa, E. C., et al. (2025). Effectiveness of Physiotherapy‑Based Ergonomics and Postural Correction on Disability and Performance among Dental Practitioners. Journal name (the full citation can be adapted from the PubMed‑Central article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12188261/)

Ergonomics Penn State University. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ehs.psu.edu/sites/ehs/files/ergonomics_proper_lifting.pdf

Fatima, N. (2026, February ). Does Integration of Physiotherapy and Ergonomics Improve Worker’s Health and Work Efficiency. Retrieved from https://jhwcr.com/index.php/jhwcr/article/view/1126

Leite, D. S., Bernardes‑Alvarenga, L. O., & Nicodemo, D. (2026). Ergonomics in manual lifting and load handling: A literature review on biomechanical risks and technologies for the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. RSD Journal (Research, Society and Development), 15(1), e50485. https://rsdjournal.org/rsd/article/view/50485

The Role of Physiotherapy in Ergonomics. (2022, September). Retrieved from SASP: https://www.saphysio.co.za/media/181718/2022-no-06-physiosa-september-blurred-2.pdf

 

 

 
 
 

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