Managing low back pain: knowledge and attitudes of hospital managers

Low back pain (LBP) is a major cause of work-related disability. Despite an increasing emphasis on the role of employers and workplace managers in reducing work disability, little research has been conducted in this area.

To identify hospital line managers' knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding LBP and its management; the difficulties encountered in managing the worker with LBP and the organizational needs in relation to managing LBP at work.

Cross-sectional survey of line managers (n = 92) at an Irish University Hospital using a self-administered questionnaire. Quantitative data were entered onto the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (V 11) and analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were coded and analysed for common themes.

A 64% (n = 59) response rate was achieved. Contrary to current evidence, 54% (n = 32) of respondent managers reported that a staff member needs to be pain free prior to return to work (RTW). Managers reported difficulties in dealing with colleagues of workers with LBP and in knowing the work capacity of the worker with LBP. Managers demonstrated poor awareness of the importance of the manager-worker relationship in influencing RTW. Managers believed more information, easier access to health services, more ergonomic training and better staff resources were necessary supports in facilitating the management of workers with LBP.

Hospital line managers' knowledge of the evidence regarding their role in LBP management needs to be improved. Managers believed better information, improved staff resources and easier access to health and ergonomic services would facilitate their management of workers with LBP.