Exploring the association between Work-Related Factors and Musculoskeletal Health among employees on Sick Leave, A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore the associations between work related factors and musculoskeletal (MSK) health in employees on sick leave due to MSK disorders.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with 509 participants. The data was collected as part of the MI-NAV trial. Work-related factors were conflict with the employer, work ability, job satisfaction, degree of sick leave and contractually agreed working hours. MSK health was measured using the Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire. A linear regression analysis was performed. A multiple regression was also done to adjust for age, gender and education.

Results: Work ability (β1.14, p<0.001) and full-time employment (β 1.91, p 0.001) were positively associated with better MSK health. A higher degree of sick leave (β -3.27, p <0.001) and conflict with the employer (β = -3.87, p <0.001) were negatively associated with MSK health. No significant association was found between job satisfaction and MSK health (β 0.25, p 0.079). The results were still significant in the adjusted analysis.

Conclusion: The study highlights significant associations between work-related factors and MSK health. Better MSK health was linked to higher work ability and full-time employment, while poorer MSK health was associated with higher degrees of sick leave and conflict with the employer. These findings emphasise the importance of the workplace environment and job characteristics in managing MSK health. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions to improve MSK health outcomes.