Patients' Adaptive Experiences of Returning to Work following Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Mixed Design Study

Compelling evidence from multiple studies has identified possible causes of upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs are multifactorial in origin with a number of risk factors contributing to their development. Despite studies attempting to provide change and prevention, the rise in MSD incidence has not slowed. To fully understand the etiology, it is important to consider the entire spectrum of possible causes. The purpose of this paper is to explore the experiences of persons with upper extremity musculoskeletal disease and their adaptation back to work. A mixed design explorative study involving quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews with MSD subjects was conducted. The methodology included completion of the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), Work Environment Scale (WES), and interviews. DASH results demonstrated meaningful changes in the subscales “overall function” and “function at work.” The WES showed positive associations in all subscales. Comparison across the cases during interviews revealed four major themes characterizing the adaptive process.