Expert consensus on facilitators and barriers to return-to-work following surgery for non-traumatic upper extremity conditions: A Delphi study

S. E. Peters*, V. Johnston, M. Ross, M. W. Coppieters

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to JournalArticleAcademicpeer-review

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Abstract

This Delphi study aimed to reach consensus on important facilitators and barriers for return-to-work following surgery for non-traumatic upper extremity conditions. In Round 1, experts (n = 42) listed 134 factors, which were appraised in Rounds 2 and 3. Consensus (3/485% agreement) was achieved for 13 facilitators (high motivation to return-to-work; high self-efficacy for return-to-work and recovery; availability of modified/alternative duties; flexible return-to-work arrangements; positive coping skills; limited heavy work exertion; supportive return-to-work policies; supportive supervisor/management; no catastrophic thinking; no fear avoidance to return-to-work; no fear avoidance to pain/activity; return to meaningful work duties; high job satisfaction) and six barriers (mood disorder diagnosis; pain/symptoms at more than one musculoskeletal site; heavy upper extremity exertions at work; lack of flexible return-to-work arrangements; lack of support from supervisor/management; high level of pain catastrophizing). Future prognostic studies are required to validate these biopsychosocial factors to further improve return-to-work outcomes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)127-136
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Hand Surgery (European Volume)
Volume42
Issue number2
Early online date28 Sept 2016
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2017

Keywords

  • Hand
  • prognostic factors
  • shoulder
  • sickness absence
  • work disability
  • wrist

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