Integrating Physical, Psychosocial, and Ergonomic Factors in Human-Work System Design for Educators: A Systematic Review

Purpose To synthesize evidence on the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among educators, and to evaluate ergonomic, physical, psychosocial, and integrated workplace interventions to inform an Education-Oriented Tri-Domain Intervention Model (ETDIM) for human-work system design. Methods Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest were searched from inception. Eligible peer-reviewed studies examined WMSD prevalence, associated factors, or workplace interventions among preschool, primary, or secondary school educators. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data on design, intervention components, outcomes, and adherence, and synthesized findings narratively across three domains: ergonomic, physical, and psychosocial, including multicomponent programs. Results Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria, 18 with quantitative designs. The 12-month prevalence of WMSDs in educators reached approximately 70%, with the back, neck, and shoulders most affected. Ergonomic interventions (participatory redesign, furniture and layout modification, posture training) reduced trunk flexion, kneeling, pain, and, in some trials, absenteeism. Workplace physical-activity programs (e.g., “Goldilocks Work,” “At-Job” exercise) improved pain, disability, perceived energy, and recovery. Psychosocial interventions (mindfulness, CBT, stress management) reduced stress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion, and in some cases improved inflammatory markers. Multicomponent interventions combining ≥ 2 domains produced the most durable benefits. Conclusion Educators experience a substantial WMSD burden driven by interacting physical and psychosocial demands. Evidence supports a tri-domain, system-level approach, integrating ergonomic redesign, embedded physical activity, and psychosocial resilience training, as the most promising strategy for sustainable improvements in educator health, well-being, and workforce retention.