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[Musculoskeletal problems and physical activity. Results from a long-term study]
Summary
A 12-month workplace training program combining daily relaxation and home exercises significantly reduced absenteeism for employees with musculoskeletal issues from 11.2 to 0.2 days annually. This positive impact on employee well-being and reduced sick leave persisted long-term.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Physical Therapy
- Ergonomics
Context:
- Musculoskeletal ailments are prevalent in industrial settings, leading to significant employee absenteeism.
- A study was conducted in two Norwegian industrial companies involving 42 employees experiencing shoulder, neck, and back problems.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-month training program on reducing absenteeism in employees with musculoskeletal complaints.
- To assess the long-term impact of the intervention on employee sick leave.
Summary:
- The program integrated daily workplace relaxation exercises with thrice-weekly 30-minute home training sessions using the TerapiMaster apparatus.
- Developed and monitored by a physiotherapist, the program focused on changes in absenteeism rates.
- Significant reduction in absenteeism was observed, decreasing from 11.2 days per year pre-study to 0.2 days per year post-intervention (p < 0.001).
Impact:
- The training intervention led to a dramatic and statistically significant decrease in employee absenteeism due to musculoskeletal issues.
- Follow-up at 30 months indicated sustained reduced absenteeism, suggesting the long-term adoption of healthy habits and continued engagement with the training regimen.
- The findings highlight the efficacy of a combined physical training and relaxation program, professionally supervised, in improving employee health and reducing workplace absence.