Article

Most working adults with low back pain (LBP) continue to work despite
pain, but few studies have assessed self-management strategies in this at-work
population. The purpose of this study was to identify workplace challenges and
self-management strategies reported by workers remaining at work despite
recurrent or persistent LBP, to be used as a framework for the development of a
workplace group intervention to prevent back disability. METHOD: Workers with LBP
(n = 38) participated in five focus groups, and audio recordings of sessions were
analysed to assemble lists of common challenges and coping strategies. A separate
analysis provided a general categorisation of major themes. RESULTS: Workplace
pain challenges fell within four domains: activity interference, negative
self-perceptions, interpersonal challenges and inflexibility of work.
Self-management strategies consisted of modifying work activities and routines,
reducing pain symptoms, using cognitive strategies and communicating pain
effectively. Theme extraction identified six predominant themes: knowing your
work setting, talking about pain, being prepared for a bad day, thoughts and
emotions, keeping moving and finding leeway. CONCLUSIONS: To retain workers with
LBP, this qualitative investigation suggests future intervention efforts should
focus on worker communication and cognitions related to pain, pacing of work and
employer efforts to provide leeway for altered job routines.

Langue : ANGLAIS