Experiences of Working with Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: A Qualitative Study

Article


Alyousef, Yousef S., Ross, Megan H., Johnston, Venerina and Smith, Michelle D.. 2024. "Experiences of Working with Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: A Qualitative Study." Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation. 34 (3), pp. 683-692. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-023-10158-8
Article Title

Experiences of Working with Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: A Qualitative Study

ERA Journal ID16458
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsAlyousef, Yousef S., Ross, Megan H., Johnston, Venerina and Smith, Michelle D.
Journal TitleJournal of Occupational Rehabilitation
Journal Citation34 (3), pp. 683-692
Number of Pages10
Year2024
PublisherSpringer
Place of PublicationUnited States
ISSN1053-0487
1573-3688
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-023-10158-8
Web Address (URL)https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10926-023-10158-8
Abstract

Purpose
Pain and disability associated with lower limb osteoarthritis (OA) may contribute to difficulties at work. This study aimed to understand the perspectives of workers with lower limb OA on difficulties, concerns, and coping strategies used at work.

Methods
Twenty-two individuals with lower limb OA who were working in paid employment participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were qualitatively analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. Codes were identified and refined through review of interview transcripts and discussion with the research team.

Results
Six themes were identified in relation to experiences working with lower limb OA. Themes were as follows: weight-bearing physical demands are challenging; lower limb OA can affect work performance; emotional consequences of pain; concerns about work in the future; positive experiences of supportive colleagues and managers; and minimal effects on sedentary work. Three themes were identified relating to strategies to manage at work: adjustments at work help manage pain and avoid exacerbations; regular strategies to manage pain; and healthcare professionals are consulted, but usually not specifically for work.

Conclusions
Workers with lower limb OA experience physical and emotional difficulties at work that can impact work performance. Workers are concerned about longevity and job security and use a range of strategies to manage symptoms and remain at work. Employers, employees, and healthcare professionals may need to work together to create workplace accommodations to help workers with lower limb OA confidently remain in work.

KeywordsLower limb; Osteoarthritis ; Work ; Workers ; Productivity
Contains Sensitive ContentDoes not contain sensitive content
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020420109. Rehabilitation
Public Notes

The accessible file is the submitted version of the paper. Please refer to the URL for the published version.

Byline AffiliationsUniversity of Queensland
Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia
School of Health and Medical Sciences
Centre for Health Research
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