Office work is known to cause physical strain, from backaches to eye strain. However, recent research has shown that this is not a new phenomenon. A study conducted on the remains of Egyptian scribes from Abusir, Egypt, dating back to between 2700 and 2180 BC, has revealed the toll that their profession took on their bodies.
The study, led by Petra Brukner Havelková from the National Museum in Prague, focused on the skeletal remains of 69 adult males, 30 of whom were identified as scribes. These scribes, who were among the 1% of the population that could read and write, held elevated social status and were responsible for crucial administrative work from a young age.
Analysis of the skeletal remains showed that scribes exhibited a higher incidence of degenerative joint changes compared to non-scribes. Specific areas of the body affected included the lower jaw, collarbone, shoulder, thumb, knee, and spine. These changes were attributed to the physical stress caused by the postures adopted by scribes while working, such as cross-legged or one-leg squatting positions with unsupported arms and forward-leaning heads.
The study also revealed signs of physical stress on the humerus, hip bone, kneecaps, and ankle of the scribes. These findings suggest that scribes may have experienced headaches, jaw dislocations, and even carpal tunnel syndrome due to their work habits, although the latter cannot be confirmed through skeletal analysis.
While experts like Prof Sonia Zakrzewski of the University of Southampton praised the study for its plausible hypothesis, others like Prof Alice Roberts of the University of Birmingham raised concerns about the lack of modern comparisons to definitively link the skeletal changes to scribe activities. Despite the challenges in making direct connections, the study sheds light on the physical toll that ancient office work could take on individuals.
In conclusion, the study of Egyptian scribes from Abusir highlights the long-standing impact of office work on the human body. By examining skeletal remains, researchers have been able to uncover the physical strain experienced by these ancient workers, offering valuable insights into the occupational hazards faced by scribes in ancient Egypt.
