Back pain in office work: what do the sources say?

Lower back pain is pain in the lower part of the back without a definite underlying disease or injury having been found. The condition is also called lumbago [2]. By duration it is divided into acute (under six weeks), subacute (six to twelve weeks) and chronic (over twelve weeks) [2].

The main causes are assumed to be overstretching or overloading of muscles and ligaments in the lower back. The pain can also originate from the intervertebral discs or the facet joints [2].

NHI describes that possible factors behind acute back pain are heavy lifting, twisting, one-sided physical work, poor fitness and inactivity, dissatisfaction and problems at work or at home, and heredity. The associations are often weak [1]. Prolonged sitting is mentioned under prevention, where the advice is to avoid it, especially when you have pain [1].

On persistent symptoms, NHI says that one-sided strenuous work and awkward working posture can contribute. If recurrences are clearly linked to the occupation, changing the work situation may be relevant [2].

The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, EU-OSHA, writes that prolonged static sitting at work, together with a sedentary lifestyle, is linked to poor health, including musculoskeletal disorders. The wording describes an association, and sitting alone has not been shown to be the cause. The report points to dynamic and active work with less sitting as a goal [3].

The examination assesses whether it concerns ordinary back pain, nerve root pain or, rarely, serious underlying disease [1]. Blood tests are sometimes used. MRI is not routine, but can be relevant if the pain is almost unchanged after four to six weeks [1].

NHI recommends staying as active as possible, resuming daily activity and work quickly, possibly with partial sick leave, and avoiding prolonged bed rest [1]. For persistent symptoms it is mentioned that bed rest should be limited to one to two days with the most intense pain [2].

Heat can reduce the pain and improve function somewhat. Exercise should start when the acute symptoms have settled, with aerobic exercise combined with strength training for the abdominal and back muscles. Regular exercise can prevent new episodes [2].

Manipulation by a chiropractor or physiotherapist can be considered after one to two weeks without improvement, and an exercise programme with a physiotherapist may become relevant after four to six weeks [1]. Chiropractic and manual treatment can help in some situations, but is less relevant in chronic problems, where self-training and activity are described as most important [2].

Acute back problems almost always go away on their own. According to NHI, 50 to 80 percent are better after two weeks and 90 percent after six weeks, and the prognosis is best for those who quickly become active [2]. Nerve root pain can last for several months [1].

Acute problems tend to return, for example with heavy lifting, awkward movements, poor working posture or stress [2]. About two percent of the population have chronic back problems [2].

NHI mentions that you should contact a doctor if you are unsure about the cause, have severe pain that is not relieved, need sick leave, have reduced muscle strength, involuntary weight loss or a general feeling of illness [1].

Problems passing urine or numbness in the groin area may require surgery within 24 hours, and you should then seek help immediately [1].

Dr.Dropin is a supplement to the GP and other public services. A chiropractor can go through your history, examine your back and movement and talk with you about how your working day and activity can be adapted to your symptoms. You can read more about lower back pain and about chiropractic.

Can sitting a lot cause back pain?

Prolonged static sitting at work is linked to musculoskeletal problems [3], and NHI recommends avoiding prolonged sitting when you have pain [1]. The associations between single factors and back pain are often weak [1].

Should I rest when my back hurts?

No, the sources recommend staying as active as possible and avoiding prolonged bed rest [1][2].

How long does back pain last?

Acute back problems almost always go away on their own. 50 to 80 percent are better after two weeks and 90 percent after six weeks, but the symptoms can return [2].

When do I need an MRI of my back?

MRI is not routine for back pain, but can be relevant if the pain is almost unchanged after four to six weeks [1].

The page about lower back pain describes the condition in more detail. You can find more articles in the overview of articles.

This article was written by Dr.Dropin Fysikalske and is based on the sources listed below. It gives general information and does not replace an examination by a healthcare professional.

The websites were accessed and read on 22 October 2026.

1. Akutte ryggplager, korsryggsmerter (Acute back problems, lower back pain). NHI.no. Last updated 10 November 2021. Link

2. Korsryggsmerte som vedvarer (Persistent lower back pain). NHI.no. Last updated 20 January 2023. Link

3. Prolonged static sitting at work: health effects and good practice advice, summary. EU-OSHA. 8 June 2021. Link