Factores biomecánicos asociados a trastornos musculoesqueléticos en trabajadores bajo modalidad de teletrabajo o trabajo híbrido en Colombia: revisión documental 2020-2026 / Biomechanical factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among teleworkers and hybrid workers in Colombia: a documentary review, 2020–2026

Abstract

This literature review monograph aims to analyze the biomechanical factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among Colombian workers engaged in telework or hybrid work arrangements, based on literature published between 2020 and 2026. Interest in this topic arises from the changes in work organization that followed the COVID-19 pandemic, a period characterized by the increased adoption of remote working arrangements supported by information and communication technologies. Although these arrangements facilitated the continuity of work activities, they also transferred part of the working environment to employees’ homes or alternative locations, where suitable workstations for prolonged computer use are not always available. The study will employ a qualitative documentary research approach involving the systematic search, selection, critical appraisal, classification, and interpretation of scientific, technical, regulatory, and institutional sources. The review will focus on workers in Colombia whose job duties, including management and service-related activities, are performed predominantly through the use of computers. The analysis will address biomechanical factors affecting the work environment, such as prolonged sitting, sustained awkward postures, and static muscular load resulting from the intensive use of digital tools. It will also examine the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders in critical body regions, including the cervical and lumbar areas and the upper limbs. Beyond merely compiling information, this monograph seeks to organize the current body of knowledge, identify patterns and gaps in the Colombian scientific literature, and provide a foundation for strengthening prevention models within the field of Occupational Safety and Health.