The Relationship Between Fear-avoidance Beliefs in Employees with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain and Work Productivity: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract

This study aimed to identify risk factors for chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMSP) and sought to examine the effect of fear-avoidance beliefs (FABs) on work productivity in workers with CMSP. We performed a longitudinal study using self-administered questionnaires given to employees in three different industries between April 2016 and March 2017. The questionnaire concerned background characteristics, work-related factors and musculoskeletal pain, the Work Functioning Impairment Scale (WFun), and the Japanese version of the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-J). We performed logistic regression analysis to evaluate factors affecting CMSP and a multi-way analysis of variance to analyze the relationship between FABs and CMSP and the effect of FABs on the ability to function at work. Age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00-1.03), mean working hours (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.04-1.33), and changes in working hours (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.02-1.37) were significantly associated with CMSP. Regarding FABs, we found that the stronger the FAB, the greater the WFun score, and that an increase in FABs resulted in a significant increase in WFun scores. This study demonstrated that long or increased working hours may be risk factors for CMSP, and that stronger FABs in those with CMSP are associated with decreased ability to function at work. In addition, measures to reduce FABs in workers with CMSP may be effective.

The persian version of the fear-avoidance beliefs questionnaire among iranian post-surgery patients: a translation and psychometrics

“…As previously declared, individuals who hold a FAB may be less likely to actively engage in post-operative instructions [ 10 – 18 ]. Such reluctance to cooperate is typically driven by apprehensions surrounding experiencing pain or exacerbating injury, ultimately elongating the recovery period and increasing the risk of complications, which could eventually result in occupational loss or inability to maintain previous occupational performance [ 89 , 90 ]. Furthermore, the mentioned concern could be aggravated due to the unstable economic circumstances of Iran, as the country has faced enormous economic challenges in recent years, including high inflation and unemployment rates [ 91 , 92 ].…”

Does difficulty in chewing induce subjective musculoskeletal symptoms? A case-control study

“…In general, early consultation with a physician is important because musculoskeletal symptoms that become more intense or chronic can lead to decreased work productivity, absence due to sickness,19 and presenteeism (attending work despite health problems) 20. The lifestyle questionnaire was developed in 1994 based on the opinions of physicians and experts involved in health check-ups, and plays an important role as an aid to physicians’ diagnosis and consultation regarding musculoskeletal diseases 21.…”