Copyright (c) 2026 Sanjay Sharma Raj S, Shwetha Sasidharan
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Effects of Sit-Stand Workstations on Spinal Alignment, Core Muscle Activation, and Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review of Occupational Ergonomics
Corresponding Author(s) : Sanjay Sharma Raj S
International Journal of Allied Medical Sciences and Clinical Research,
Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026): 2026 Volume -14 - Issue 2
Abstract
Background: Sit-stand workstations have been proposed as ergonomic solutions to reduce sedentary behaviour and musculoskeletal discomfort in occupational settings. With increasing concerns about low back pain (LBP) among office workers, these workstations aim to promote posture variability and reduce the risk of developing pain by facilitating alternation between sitting and standing throughout the workday.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted following established guidelines. A structured search was performed across PubMed, Google Scholar, PEDro, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, covering studies published up to November 2016. Twelve relevant articles were identified, with eight included in the quantitative analysis.
Results: Sit-stand workstation use showed a standardized mean difference reduction in low back discomfort compared to conventional sitting. Postural changes were associated with better spinal alignment in standing versus sitting positions, and standing increased core muscle activation in the lumbar and thoracic regions. However, discrepancies existed in muscle stiffness changes across different spinal regions.
Conclusion: Sit-stand workstations may effectively reduce low back pain by encouraging posture variation and improving spinal alignment and muscle activation. Further research is necessary to establish optimal usage durations and assess effects on specific populations, such as those with pre-existing back pain.