IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Development and evaluation of a clinical and ergonomic program for the prevention of chronicity in patients with dorsal or lower back pain in 30 Sherbrooke-area companies

Abstract

The Spitzer Report on back pain published in 1986 pointed out the need for physicians to take into account occupational contraints and recommended that, in cases of possible chronicity, the patient should be handled by a multidisciplinary team, including an acceptable incentive to return to work. This project, undertaken by the back pain clinic at Université de Sherbrooke, was designed to provide a scientific validation of these theories. It validated the comprehensive case management model for back pain sufferers, including ocupational medicine intervention, quick, step-by-step and supervised return to work, and ergonomic adjustments to the workstation. Such case management cuts the worker’s absence in half and improves his pain control and functional capabilities.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0090-1160
Status: Completed
Research Field: Occupational Rehabilitation
Team:
  • Patrick Loisel (Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke)
  • Gilles R. Dagenais (Centre de recherche de l'IUCPQ)
  • Pierre Durand (Université de Sherbrooke)
  • Lise Gosselin (Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke)
  • Robert Simard (Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke)
  • Jean Turcotte (Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke)