Employees' experiences of chronic pain in the workplace

Between one-third and one-half of the UK population is affected by chronic pain. Effectively supporting people with chronic pain at work requires an understanding of employees' experiences and expressed support needs.

To understand how chronic pain affects people in their place of work, their reported support needs with relation to self-managing their chronic pain at work, and views towards the support provided by their employers.

Qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews conducted with working-age adults who experience chronic pain and are employed in organizations in England. Data were analysed thematically and inductively.

Thirteen employees were interviewed (12 female, 1 male; aged 19-58 years). Four themes and 12 sub-themes were identified: (i) flexibility (hybrid working, working hours, manager support), (ii) inadequate support services (underdeveloped policies, poorly trained staff, inaccessibility), (iii) working conditions (equipment and adjustments, nature of job, being overworked), and (iv) perception of pain (stigma and discrimination, awareness and knowledge, support networks).

This study provides insights into a range of factors that are described as helping or hindering the self-management of chronic pain at work. While support needs vary, inequities in workplace provisions and support are described. Occupational health and well-being services are described as not uniformly accessible, and workplace policies relating to chronic conditions or disability as vague. Line managers are described as playing a critical role in employee experiences, but are often perceived to lack the knowledge and training to address employees' support needs.