Best practices in the rehabilitation of acute musculoskeletal
disorders in workers with injuries: An integrative review and analysis of
evolving trends
Affiliations: School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University,
Kingston, ON, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Rosemary Lysaght, Ph.D., School of
Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, 31 George St., Kingston, ON K7L
3N6, Canada. Tel.: +1 613 533 2134; Fax: +1 613 533 6776; E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: Objective: Strategies for the restoration of function and job
performance in workers with musculoskeletal disorders have changed considerably
since industrial rehabilitation became a distinct specialization in the 1980s.
A rich body of research concerning approaches to medical and rehabilitative
management of these disorders exists, resulting in a large number of hybrid
approaches worldwide. Methods: This integrative review examined the evidence base for best
practices in the rehabilitation of acute musculoskeletal workplace injuries,
and also mapped the evolution of approaches over the past thirty years.
Contextual factors that may have contributed to change were assessed through
analysis of changing practice trends and review of descriptive literature over
time. Results: A clear movement away from simplistic, unidimensional
approaches towards comprehensive workplace interventions is evident. Economic
concerns and growing government and insurance regulation of workplace safety
and injury management were the likely drivers of change. While the
contributions of various elements of disability management in the workplace
were examined, many features of onsite interventions remain to be examined. Conclusions: A strong body of research has produced notable advances
in management of acute musculoskeletal workplace injury. Research concerning
the delivery of workplace-based interventions, the role of workplace
environment factors and a range of worker outcomes will further advance
knowledge in this field.
