Return to work after two years of total disability: a case report
Donald R Murphy1, Alisson Rosenblum
1Rhode Island Spine Center, 600 Pawtucket Avenue, Pawtucket, 02860, USA. rispine@aol.com
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation
|June 6, 2006
Summary
This case study shows that an integrated approach can help injured workers with chronic spinal pain return to work, even after a two-year absence. Successful return to work is achievable with proper clinical management.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Pain Management
- Spinal Disorders
Background:
- Limited literature details clinical interventions for workers with chronic spinal pain.
- The clinical decision-making process for managing injured workers is rarely discussed publicly.
- Prolonged work disability (2 years) significantly reduces the likelihood of successful return to work.
Observation:
- A case study of a patient disabled from work for two years due to chronic spinal pain.
- Employed an integrated conservative management strategy.
- Included chiropractic manipulation, pain education, restricted duties, and inter-professional communication.
Findings:
- The patient successfully returned to her nursing occupation after 15 weeks.
- Achieved both part-time and subsequent full-time work.
- Demonstrated the efficacy of the integrated approach.
Implications:
- Highlights a systematic diagnostic and treatment approach for injured workers.
- Suggests that successful return to work is possible even after extended disability.
- Provides a model for managing chronic spinal pain in the occupational setting.
