Concerns and expectations about returning to work with low back pain: identifying themes from focus groups and...

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Psychology
• Rehabilitation science

Background:

• Return to work after occupational low back pain (OLBP) is influenced by worker concerns and expectations.
• Theoretical constructs of self-efficacy and outcome expectancy have not been previously explored in this context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify themes related to self-efficacy and outcome expectancy for returning to work after OLBP.
• To explore qualitative aspects of workers' beliefs influencing return to work.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving focus groups (n=28) and interviews (n=23) with individuals recently returned to work or with impending return after OLBP.
• Analysis of recorded data for utterances related to self-efficacy and outcome expectancy.

Main Results:

• Two primary self-efficacy constructs identified: resuming physical activity (8 sub-domains) and resuming work (3 sub-domains: pain control, obtaining help, meeting job demands).
• Outcome expectancy included four sub-domains: financial/job security, re-injury, workplace support, and self-image.

Conclusions:

• Hesitation to return to work after OLBP is linked to concerns about pain and re-injury.
• Perceived ability to perform physical tasks, meet role expectations, secure workplace support, and maintain job security are crucial factors.