Prevalence of Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Its Association with Work Productivity Among Bankers

Abstract

Background: Myofascial Pain Syndrome is a frequent musculoskeletal condition marked by localized pain, tight muscle bands, and trigger points. Bankers are at higher risk due to prolonged sitting, continuous computer work, and poor ergonomics, leading to neck, shoulder, and upper-back discomfort. While MPS is common in office professions, its specific impact on work productivity among bankers remains underexplored. Objective: To assess the prevalence of myofascial pain syndrome and its association with work productivity among bankers. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out from March to September 2025 after obtaining ethical approval (Ref # USKT/FAHS/RECLetter-00078) from the Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sialkot. A total of 377 bankers working in various public and private banks across Sialkot were included in the study using non-probability convenience sampling. The study included participants aged between 25 and 40 years, both male and female, who had been engaged in the same type of job for at least one year. Eligible participants were those involved in prolonged sitting and computer use for a minimum of eight hours daily over the past year. Individuals were excluded if they had any pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, or trauma, or were regularly involved in fitness training. The myofascial pain syndrome questionnaire was employed to assess pain characteristics, trigger points, posture habits, aggravating factors, relieving positions, and their impact on daily functioning. The Impact of Work Environment on Civil Servant Productivity Scale assessed workplace-related factors, including ergonomics, break patterns, workstation support, posture, stress, and motivation. Association between this syndrome and work productivity was assessed using Pearson’s correlation test. Results: Among the 377 participants (259 males, 118 females), the mean age was 31.57 years. A high prevalence of MPS was observed, with 88.9% categorized as high and 10.3% as severe risk. Work productivity levels showed 1.3% low, 34% moderate, and 64.7% high productivity. Pearson correlation indicated a weak, statistically insignificant relationship between MPS and work productivity (r=0.069, p=0.179). Conclusion: The Study concluded that myofascial pain syndrome was highly prevalent among bankers, and it showed no significant association with work productivity. Despite discomfort and trigger points, productivity levels remained largely unaffected.