At Bend + Mend in Sydney’s CBD, we see this every day: pain and work often go hand in hand. As physiotherapists, we want people to stay healthy, stay at work, and keep doing the things they need to do. But just because someone is physically at work does not always mean they are working well or comfortably.
That is where presenteeism comes in. Presenteeism usually refers to staying at work despite illness or injury. For people with musculoskeletal pain, it is very common. A lot of workers try to push through discomfort and keep going, but that does not always mean they are being productive. Pain can affect concentration, speed, comfort, and decision-making.
If you have ever tried to keep working while in pain, you are not alone. Most people have done it at some point. Sometimes it feels easier to push on than to stop altogether. But it is worth asking a simple question: is it really helping to keep going, or would a short break be the smarter choice?
That is where being strategic matters. A brief pause, a short walk, or a few simple desk stretches may help reduce tension before it turns into a bigger issue. For many desk workers, symptoms often follow a familiar pattern: fatigue first, then discomfort, then pain, and sometimes longer-term injury. If you have been sitting in the same position for too long, your body may be telling you it needs a reset.
Getting up, moving, and then returning to work refreshed can often be the better option. It may help your body feel better, and it may also help you think more clearly and work more effectively.
Watch: A physio’s view on a short movement break to help office workers stay more comfortable and productive, reducing lower back tightness.
It is not always easy to stop when you are busy, but small decisions can make a big difference over time. If your day involves neck pain, shoulder tightness, upper back stiffness, or lower back discomfort, it may be worth listening to those early signs.
The team at Bend + Mend in Sydney’s CBD offer practical physiotherapy support, including ergonomic workstation assessments for individuals and groups. If your workplace is dealing with pain, discomfort, or productivity concerns, professional guidance may help create a better setup for health and work performance.
For enquiries, contact physio@bendandmend.com.au.
References
1. Van den Heuvel et al (2007)Loss of productivity due to neck/shoulder symptoms and hand/arm symptoms: Results from the PROMO-Study. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation 17(3): 370–382.
2. De Vries et al (2013) Self-reported work ability and work performance in workers with chronic nonspecific musculoskeletal pain. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation 23(1):1-10
