Poor sleep quality is independently associated with increased odds of neck, upper-back, and knee pain among university employees
In a cross-sectional study of 460 university employees, poor sleep quality was independently associated with increased odds of neck pain (OR=1.13, 95% CI: 1.03-1.24), upper-back pain (OR=2.47, 95% CI: 1.08-5.67), and knee pain (OR=4.28, 95% CI: 1.70-10.80). The study also found high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, with low back (65.9%) and neck (65.0%) being most common.
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Poor sleep quality is independently associated with increased odds of neck, upper-back, and knee pain among university employees The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 34/100 (low).
The Claim
Poor sleep quality is independently associated with increased odds of neck, upper-back, and knee pain among university employees
This conclusion is most relevant to: University employees at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia (n=460).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Musculoskeletal disorders in relation to computer workstation ergonomics and sleep quality among university employees: A cross-sectional study. (Medicine, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Poor sleep quality may impair tissue repair and increase inflammation
- ▸Sleep deprivation can alter pain perception and sensitivity
- ▸Reduced sleep may lead to muscle fatigue and poor posture
- ▸Result: Increased odds of musculoskeletal pain in neck, upper-back, and knee
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸University employees at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia (n=460)
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference
- ▸Self-reported measures may introduce recall bias
- ▸Potential unmeasured confounders (e.g., physical activity, stress) not fully adjusted
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among university employees?▼
The study found high prevalence: low back (65.9%), neck (65.0%), shoulders (57.2%), and upper back (46.3%).
How was sleep quality measured in this study?▼
Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).
Which musculoskeletal disorders were associated with poor sleep quality?▼
Poor sleep quality was independently associated with increased odds of neck pain, upper-back pain, and knee pain.
What are the implications of these findings for workplace interventions?▼
The findings highlight the importance of implementing workplace ergonomic interventions and employee wellness programs to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal disorders.
References
- 1.El-Setouhy M, Abdelmola A, Khired ZA, Ahmed MM, Komeit SA, Remely RR, Hakami SA, Moafa NA, Ghalib AH, Magrashi EG, Shawish RM, Alareefy AA, Alharbi AA, Altherwi T, Zaino M. “Musculoskeletal disorders in relation to computer workstation ergonomics and sleep quality among university employees: A cross-sectional study..” Medicine, 2026. PMID: 42601694 DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000050099