Striving for balance: A grounded theory study of health experiences of nurses with musculoskeletal problems

BackgroundMusculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are one of the major causes of the high levels of long-term sickleave and early retirement, and healthcare personnel are among the occupational groups most affected. Only limited research in the area has focused on the experiences of those affected, and to increase the understanding of MSD, all dimensions of the health experiences need to be taken into consideration.ObjectivesThe aim of this paper was to explore the experiences of illness and wellness among female healthcare personnel with musculoskeletal symptoms.DesignA qualitative grounded theory approach guided the study in data collection and analysis.SettingsMedical and surgical ward units at three hospitals; one university hospital and two minor hospitals.ParticipantsEight women, registered nurses and nursing aides, with neck, shoulder and/or back problems in early stages.MethodsA grounded theory approach was used with narrative thematic interviews and parallel data analysis with constant comparisons.ResultsThe analysis revealed a process of striving to reach a balance between illness and wellness, through accepting and handling illness. Illness appeared as a threat and an experience, while experiences of wellness were simultaneously nurtured. The informants were striving for balance through an inner reasoning leading to acceptance and by handling illness in various ways depending on the character of the illness.ConclusionThis paper indicates the diversity of the illness experience, the parallel importance of wellness, and the process of balancing these two in order to feel well enough. As previous research has shown that MSD has a multifactorial cause, a holistic view of health promotion, prevention and rehabilitation may provide a more effective tool than the bodily physical focus most frequently used today.