Patterns of Physical Inactivity and Their Association With Musculoskeletal Complaints

Musculoskeletal complaints have become a major public health concern, with physical inactivity emerging as a consistent and modifiable risk factor. Sedentary behavior, particularly prolonged sitting, contributes to biomechanical stress, muscular imbalance, and postural decline, which in turn influence the development of pain in regions such as the neck, back, and shoulders. These complaints appear not only in older adults but increasingly in adolescents and working-age populations, where screen time and desk-bound routines dominate daily life. Studies across different age groups confirm that both the intensity and duration of inactivity play a role in symptom severity. The distribution of musculoskeletal pain varies across demographic lines. Adolescents experience symptoms linked to school-based inactivity and poor ergonomic practices, while adults show patterns shaped by occupational sitting and multitasking between work and domestic duties. Gender and socioeconomic differences further influence pain outcomes. Women, for example, are more likely to report upper-body discomfort under the same sedentary conditions. In lower-income populations, a lack of access to active environments and postural support tools increases vulnerability despite high physical workloads. Preventive strategies have shown promise in reducing the effects of inactivity. These include workplace adaptations like sit-stand desks, classroom movement breaks, and urban planning that promotes walking. Mobile health technologies and personalized coaching also provide low-cost ways to track behavior and prompt movement throughout the day. When prevention is aligned with environmental and behavioral change, the potential to reduce long-term pain and disability becomes greater. Findings from current literature suggest that the musculoskeletal impact of physical inactivity is both measurable and preventable when approached through diverse, sustained interventions. Recognizing the variation in how pain presents across demographics can guide more targeted and equitable prevention efforts that support musculoskeletal health across the lifespan.