Of all employees with health problems in our country, no less than 26 percent suffer from physical complaints, such as pain and discomfort in the muscles and joints. This is shown by research by Idewe, the largest external service for prevention and protection at work.
Physical pain complaints are one of the main causes of long-term absenteeism. In one in five of the employees who are incapacitated for work, this is because of pain complaints in the muscles and joints. Figures from the 2019 health report, which surveyed 206,726 employees by Idewe, show that 10.3 percent of all employees take medication for pain and inflammation complaints. Research shows that high physical strain such as assuming the same posture for a long time or lifting heavy loads at work are risk factors for lower back pain.
Employers need to be sensitized
Ergonomics in the workplace is important, but other factors also play a role. It appears, for example, that social support from colleagues and supervisors, just like sufficient physical exercise, are protective factors for neck and back pain. High work pressure and stress, on the other hand, are risk factors that are better avoided in order to avoid neck pain. That is why it is important that employers are sensitized to nurture their employees in pain and keep them working. This can be done by focusing on good ergonomics, but also by paying attention to the employee’s work experience. Sufficient movement and variation in posture during work are crucial here. The way in which employees themselves deal with their pain complaints also determines whether or not they continue to work or return successfully. ‘Give employees insight into how pain works, how the pain system can change if pain persists and which work factors influence that system,’ explains Liesbeth Daenen, researcher at Idewe. ‘This gives them a better understanding of how pain arises and so they stop worrying. They are reassured so that fear and uncertainty about pain and work disappear. The motivation to get started and take control of their own health and pain complaints is increasing. It is crucial here that we start from an approach tailored to each individual, with a focus on prevention. ‘ Idewe’s research is launched on the occasion of ‘Week of Pain’, which runs from 7 to 13 October.
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