OCCUPATIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY IN THE PREVENTION OF WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational physiotherapy is a specialty focused on promoting health and preventing occupational injuries, acting in the prevention, recovery, and maintenance of worker health through actions involving ergonomics, biomechanics, workplace physical activity, and recovery from complaints and physical discomfort. Objective: To identify and analyze the main risk factors related to the onset of RSI/WRULD in the workplace, to identify physiotherapy strategies used in the prevention of repetitive strain injuries, and to propose preventive measures based on body awareness, adapted to the daily routine work. Materials and Methods: This is an integrative literature review study conducted using the following databases: Google Scholar, SciELO, LILACS, and PubMed. The databases included articles published between 2018 and 2025. Results: Repetitive movements and inadequate postures are the main risk factors for the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), followed by physical overload and lack of breaks during the workday. Workplace gymnastics stands out as the most used strategy, followed by ergonomic interventions, active breaks, and stretching programs, highlighting the preventive role of physiotherapy in the occupational environment. Studies show that body awareness and postural training are the main measures adopted and followed by educational guidelines such as physical exercises, reinforcing the importance of health education in the occupational context. Conclusion: It is concluded that the prevention of RSI/WRULDs requires an integrated approach, combining physiotherapy interventions, ergonomic adjustments, and educational practices. Body education stands out as a fundamental part of this process, as it promotes changes in habits, reduces exposure to risk factors, and contributes to building a healthier and safer work environment.