Abstract

Current knowledge demonstrates that occupational disability among workers with musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) must be understood in the context of their interactions with their work environment. Several studies highlight the influence of psychosocial factors, such as beliefs and fears related to pain and occupational disability. These concerns could be related to present or future problems. If the worker has a current concern about a risk factor at work, measures that are solely centred on the individual will be insufficient, because the risk factor is still present in the workplace. In light of available data, it is important to approach the issue of concerns differently, in order to develop more effective responses.

This study will identify appropriate avenues for occupational rehabilitation, by using these concerns as sources of information to identify the relevant factors to consider at the time of a return to work.

It will be one of the first studies to document the types of concerns exhibited by workers with an occupational disability in the form of a musculoskeletal disorder, in interaction with the environment.