Article

PURPOSE: To evaluate the extent to which the principles of chronic pain or
illness self-management (SM) programs might be adapted to focus on the workplace
concerns of adults with persistent or recurrent pain and lead to new workplace
intervention opportunities. METHOD: Eight SM programs were selected as
representative evidence-based programs and then compared to extract common
instructional elements. Elements were analyzed for potential application to four
workplace problem domains identified by workers with pain: activity interference,
negative self-perceptions, interpersonal challenges, and the inflexibility of
work. RESULTS: Of 24 instructional elements, 17 were shared by at least half of
the SM programs. Instructional elements judged to be best suited for dealing with
workplace concerns included those focused on reducing pain and discomfort, making
informed decisions, communicating effectively, and dealing with thoughts and
feelings. However, aspects of the workplace that may alter the feasibility or
effectiveness of SM strategies include the level of physical demands and
limitations, job leeway, and the nature of workplace roles and relationships.
CONCLUSIONS: Principles and methods of SM intervention programs are generally
well suited to address pain-related problems in the workplace, but tailoring of
messages may be necessary to incorporate the unique organizational, physical, and
social aspects of work into psycho-educational programs.

Langue : ANGLAIS