Back, muscle and joint pains are being blamed on commuting by 19% of commuters, a study from Bupa has found.
In 2013 31 million working days were lost to back, neck and muscle pains with combined musculoskeletal problems the top cause of working days being lost.
Londoners were the most likely to complain their commute contributes to aches and pains with 73% blaming a lack of space. Meanwhile 59% said more space would reduce their suffering.
Mode of transport affected the likelihood people would be in pain, of those travelling by car 64% believing it's causing their pain, compared to 5% of runners.
This compares to 11% of those travelling by bus, 5% of those travelling by train and 6% of cyclists who blamed their commute for leaving them feeling uncomfortable.
The pain is said to be increasing with 16% saying their commute has become more crowded over the last two years.
Of those in back and joint pain 48% said they do not consider their posture when commuting and 21% make a conscious effort to stretch their back or legs while on their journey.
The average worker sits or stands in the same position for three and a half hours a day the study also found.
Katherine Cran, physiotherapist at Bupa's Basinghall Clinic, said: "Commuting to and from work every day can have a profound effect on the body. Over time and without the right care, this can lead to long term joint and muscle damage.
"I often see people with back and joint pain who sit all day at work and tend to sit or stand throughout their commute too. Incorporating physical exercise into your day, checking your posture and doing a few simple exercises can help make a real difference."
