Abstract

The causes of back injury relapse - affecting approximately 30% of cases within the first six months after injury - are poorly understood. No data is available on the situation of these workers upon their return to work. To remedy this knowledge gap, a group of more than 200 workers in the Montréal area suffering a back injury for the first time will be observed from the onset of injury until six months after their return to work. Telephone interviews will be used to complete the follow-up.

The analysis of the determinants of relapse upon return to work will focus on functional capacity following treatment, working conditions, and task modifications upon return to work.