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Factors prolonging disability in work-related cumulative trauma disorders
P J Bonzani1, L Millender, B Keelan
1Occupational Medicine Department, New England Baptist Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Workers' compensation claims for soft tissue disorders are rising. This study introduces a classification system to identify psychosocial factors and employment status, crucial for a faster return to work.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Rising costs associated with managing soft tissue disorders in workers' compensation.
- Increasing complexity in medical management due to social and nonmedical factors.
Observation:
- Physicians need tools to identify nonmedical issues hindering return to work.
- A classification system was developed to categorize administrative and psychosocial issues impacting disability duration.
- Patient job demands were assessed using established ergonomic risk factors.
Findings:
- Retrospective analysis of 50 cases in occupational hand clinics over one year.
- Psychosocial classification of patients significantly prolongs disability.
- Current employment status is a key factor in extended workers' compensation claims.
Implications:
- Improved physician recognition of psychosocial barriers can expedite return to work.
- The classification system aids in managing complex workers' compensation cases.
- Addressing psychosocial factors and employment status is vital for reducing disability duration and costs.