Working and musculoskeletal pain

Persistent musculoskeletal pain and productive employment: A systematic review of interventions

Chief investigator: Dr Jodi Oakman
Institutions: La Trobe University and MOVE
Year: 2014-2015

This review examined the evidence for the effectiveness of workplace interventions that target employees with persistent musculoskeletal pain. Effectiveness was examined in the context of maintaining employment, as well as maximising productivity.

Read the report, summary and journal articles here.

Report
Plain language summary
Oakman J, Keegel T, Kinsman N, Briggs AM (2016) Persistent musculoskeletal pain and productive employment: A systematic review of interventions. Occupational and Environmental Medicine. 73(3): 206-214.
Oakman J, Kinsman N, Briggs AM (2016) Working with persistent pain: An exploration of strategies utilised to stay productive at work. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation. doi: 10.1007/s10926-016-9626-5.

What can workplaces do to support employees with persistent musculoskeletal pain to maintain productive employment?

Chief investigator: Dr Jodi Oakman
Institutions: La Trobe University and MOVE
Year: 2013-2015

This research investigated the barriers to maintaining productive employment among people in Australia. Participants were aged between 25-65 years, working at least 8 hours paid work per week, and had unresolved pain for at least 6 months.

The research questions focused on the experience of working with persistent musculoskeletal pain including an exploration of the barriers and enablers from a personal, workplace and societal perspective.

Read the report, summary and journal articles here.