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Open Access 01-12-2009 | Research article

Designing a workplace return-to-work program for occupational low back pain: an intervention mapping approach

Authors: Carlo Ammendolia, David Cassidy, Ivan Steenstra, Sophie Soklaridis, Eleanor Boyle, Stephanie Eng, Hamer Howard, Bains Bhupinder, Pierre Côté

Published in: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders | Issue 1/2009

Abstract

Background

Despite over 2 decades of research, the ability to prevent work-related low back pain (LBP) and disability remains elusive. Recent research suggests that interventions that are focused at the workplace and incorporate the principals of participatory ergonomics and return-to-work (RTW) coordination can improve RTW and reduce disability following a work-related back injury. Workplace interventions or programs to improve RTW are difficult to design and implement given the various individuals and environments involved, each with their own unique circumstances. Intervention mapping provides a framework for designing and implementing complex interventions or programs. The objective of this study is to design a best evidence RTW program for occupational LBP tailored to the Ontario setting using an intervention mapping approach.

Methods

We used a qualitative synthesis based on the intervention mapping methodology. Best evidence from systematic reviews, practice guidelines and key articles on the prognosis and management of LBP and improving RTW was combined with theoretical models for managing LBP and changing behaviour. This was then systematically operationalized into a RTW program using consensus among experts and stakeholders. The RTW Program was further refined following feedback from nine focus groups with various stakeholders.

Results

A detailed five step RTW program was developed. The key features of the program include; having trained personnel coordinate the RTW process, identifying and ranking barriers and solutions to RTW from the perspective of all important stakeholders, mediating practical solutions at the workplace and, empowering the injured worker in RTW decision-making.

Conclusion

Intervention mapping provided a useful framework to develop a comprehensive RTW program tailored to the Ontario setting.

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The pre-publication history for this paper can be accessed here:http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2474/10/65/prepub

Title: Designing a workplace return-to-work program for occupational low back pain: an intervention mapping approach
Authors: Carlo Ammendolia
David Cassidy
Ivan Steenstra
Sophie Soklaridis
Eleanor Boyle
Stephanie Eng
Hamer Howard
Bains Bhupinder
Pierre Côté
Publication date: 01-12-2009
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders / Issue 1/2009
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2474
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-10-65

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Designing a workplace return-to-work program for occupational low back pain: an intervention mapping approach

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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