Work - Volume 69, issue 4

Authors: Chandrasekaran, Baskaran | Rao, Chythra R. | Davis, Fiddy | Arumugam, Ashokan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged sitting in desk-based office workers is found to be associated with increased cardiometabolic risk and poor cognitive performance. Technology-based physical activity (PA) interventions using smartphone applications (SmPh app) to promote PA levels might be effective in reducing cardiometabolic risk among sedentary population but the evidence remains inconclusive. OBJECTIVE: The objective is to investigate the effects of a technology-based PA intervention compared to PA education with a worksite manual or no intervention on PA levels, cardiometabolic risk, cognitive performance, and work productivity among desk-based employees. METHOD: A three-arm clustered randomized trial will be conducted. The …study will be conducted among various administrative offices of a multifaceted university in India. Desk-based employees aged between 30 and 50 years (n  = 159; 53 in each arm) will be recruited. Employees from various constituent institutions (clusters) of the university will be randomized into one of the three following groups - SMART: SmPh app-driven break reminders (visual exercise prompts) plus pedometer-based step intervention, TRADE: worksite PA education with a manual plus American College of Sports Medicine guided PA prescription, or CONTROL: usual work group. At baseline and after the 1st, 3rd and 6th month of the trial period, accelerometer-measured sitting time and PA levels, cardiometabolic risk (fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, insulin, blood pressure, heart rate variability, functional capacity, and subcutaneous fat), cognitive performance (executive function), sickness absenteeism and work limitations will be assessed by a blinded assessor. Therapist delivering interventions will not be blinded. CONCLUSION: This trial will determine whether a combined SmPh-app and pedometer-based intervention is more effective than education or no intervention in altering PA levels, cardiometabolic risk and cognitive performance among desk-based employees in India. This study has the potential to foster institutional recommendations for using SmPh-based technology and pedometers to promote PA and reduce sedentary behavior at work. Show more

Keywords: M-health, physical activity, office workers, worksite education, cardiometabolic risk, cognition, work productivity, musculoskeletal discomfort

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213544

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1229-1245, 2021

Authors: Khoshroo, Fatemeh | Seidi, Foad | Rajabi, Reza | Thomas, Abbey

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Distinctive features of low back pain-developers (LBPDs) as pre-clinical low back pain (LBP) population have been evidenced in three areas of alignment, muscle activation, and movement patterns. To clarify whether the reported altered functional movement patterns in chronic LBP patients result from or result in LBP disorders, LBPDs’ functional movement patterns should be investigated. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare female LBPDs’ functional movement patterns with non-pain developers’ (NPDs). METHODS: Sixty female LBPDs and NPDs were recruited based on the research requirements. The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) was used to investigate movement quality. Data were …compared between groups via Mann-Whitney U tests and correlation analyses examined association between pain intensity and onset during prolonged standing and the FMS score. Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves and Chi Squares were conducted to find the best cutoff points. An alpha level of p ≤0.05 was used to establish statistical significance. RESULTS: LBPDs scored significantly lower, or rather worse than NPDs in the FMS composite score (12.06±1.33 vs. 16.43±1.59, U  = 3, P  < 0.001). Moreover, the optimal cutoff scores of≤14 on the FMS, 2 on the push-up, and 1 on the deep squat discriminated between female LBPDs and NPDs. The FMS composite score was correlated negatively with LBP intensity (r (60) = –0.724, p  < 0.001) and positively with LBP onset (r (60) = 0.277, p  = 0.032) during prolonged standing. Finally, the results indicated that female LBPDs presented with at least one bilateral asymmetry on the FMS had 10 times (95% CI, 2.941–34.008) and with at least two bilateral asymmetries on the FMS had 15.5 times (95% CI, 3.814–63.359) higher odds of developing LBP during prolonged standing than NPDs. CONCLUSIONS: Female LBPDs, who are at higher risk for developing LBP in the future, have significantly lower quality of functional movement patterns compared to NPDs. Moreover, the FMS appears to show promise for predicting individuals who are at risk for LBP development during prolonged standing. Show more

Keywords: FMS, low back/lumbar spine, pain, prevention, injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213545

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1247-1254, 2021

Authors: Kawada, Tomoyuki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health habits are sometimes closely related to physical and mental health status. OBJECTIVE: The relationship between coffee consumption and psychological wellbeing was evaluated by considering confounding factors. METHODS: A total of 5,256 men, aged 35 to 60 years, from a workplace in Japan participated in this study conducted in 2018. Psychological wellbeing was evaluated using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) 12-item version and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Positive GHQ12 score was significantly associated with average daily sleeping time < 4 h, lack of regular exercise and younger age. In …contrast, there was no significant association between positive GHQ12 score and coffee consumption. Coffee consumption and smoking status was not significantly related to psychological wellbeing as measured using the GHQ questionnaire. In contrast, aging, regular exercise and sleeping time were related to psychological wellbeing. CONCLUSION: Coffee consumption was not significantly related to psychological wellbeing, and casual association might be confirmed by a prospective study. Show more

Keywords: Coffee consumption, psychological wellbeing, workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213546

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1255-1259, 2021

Authors: Fiebert, Ira | Kistner, Fran | Gissendanner, Christine | DaSilva, Christopher

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The excessive use of hand-held mobile devices (HHMD) leads to a postural phenomenon known as text neck. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to discuss the anatomical, biomechanical and muscle activation changes within the cervical and thoracic regions associated with the sustained, forward, flexed neck posture, observed with excessive usage of hand-held mobile devices. Additionally, this paper examines the relationship of gender, as well as the effects of carrying backpack loads by youth, on this forward, flexed neck posture. METHODS: Multiple aspects of the text neck position that occur when an individual uses a …HHMD are described. RESULTS: Prolonged use of hand-held mobile devices results in adverse anatomical and biomechanical changes in the cervical and thoracic spine, muscular imbalances, and postural compensations, all of which contribute to muscular overuse and fatigue resulting in pain. CONCLUSIONS: Physical therapists must educate their patients about proper posture while using hand-held mobile devices. Proper posture includes: holding the device close to eye level, using the device while standing or sitting and holding the device with a line of sight perpendicular to the surface of the device, using a larger screen, and texting with both hands. Also, because children are using hand held mobile devices at younger ages, parents and teachers must be educated about the dangers of prolonged use of hand-held devices. Show more

Keywords: Forward head posture, mobile phone, cervical pain, neck pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213547

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1261-1270, 2021

Authors: Dolev, Niva | Itzkovich, Yariv | Fisher-Shalem, Orit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Interrelations between incivility and its precursors or consequences, as well as the role of these interrelations in employees’ reactions to incivility are still poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to assess different reactions to workplace incivility while identifying specific and individual-based appraisals and emotions associated with these reactions. METHOD: A qualitative research approach using semi-structured in-depth interviews, with a sample of 42 employees in a beverage manufacturing corporation in Israel to capture employees’ voices regarding their incivility experiences. RESULTS: Analysis of the interviews indicated four reaction-categories: (1) Exit; (2) …Voice; (3) Loyalty; and (4) Neglect, in line with the theoretical EVLN model for describing reactions to stressful conditions. In particular, the interviews revealed a dynamic reaction process and suggested that intentionality of reaction provides a third, new dimension. Additionally, an underlying emotional process rooted in appraisals and aroused emotions was evident in each of the reactions. CONCLUSIONS: Organizations that wish to reduce incivility events may wish to examine the emotions of targets of incivility, explore the underlying appraisals associated with these emotions, and be mindful of the dynamic and highly individual reaction processes involved. Show more

Keywords: Mistreatment, workplace emotions, exit/voice/loyalty/neglect model, appraisals, work-related stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213548

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1271-1282, 2021

Authors: Mirpuri, Sheena | Riley, Kristen | Gany, Francesca

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Taxi drivers, an immigrant male population, may exhibit poor health behaviors and increased health risks. OBJECTIVE: The current study examined stress and demographics as predictors of physical activity (PA), nutrition, sleep, and smoking, and the co-occurrence of these behaviors among taxi drivers. METHODS: A cross-sectional needs assessment was conducted in New York City. The sample (n  = 252) was comprised of male taxi drivers, 98%of whom were born outside of the U.S., with the majority from South Asian countries (62%), and 45 years old on average (SD = 11). RESULTS: We found low rates of fruit/vegetable …consumption and PA. Rates of stress, PA, and smoking varied by demographic factors. Stress was positively associated with sleep disturbances and negatively associated with smoking. Aside from a relationship between sugar consumption and smoking, other health behaviors were not associated. CONCLUSIONS: While stress appears to impact some indicators of modifiable health behaviors, its lack of relationship with others points to more persistent health issues. Demographic differences found for PA and smoking also point to groups that may especially benefit from interventions. These findings suggest the need for targeted health interventions for taxi drivers in large metropolitan cities. Show more

Keywords: Physical activity, nutrition, sleep, smoking

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213549

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1283-1291, 2021

Authors: Papakonstantinou, Doxa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis is often associated with work disability, a term used to describe the inability to be or to remain employed. Work disability is a common implication of rheumatoid arthritis. OBJECTIVE: This review aims to identify and analyze the predictive factors of work disability among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as to group these factors into broader categories, based on the most current studies in this field. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted using Google Scholar, MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases. Eighty-six international journal articles were finally selected. RESULTS: The results suggest that …occupational, personal, medical and societal factors are the main predictive categories of work disability for people with rheumatoid arthritis. CONCLUSIONS: Medical progress has had a positive effect on the development and the rates of work disability among patients with RA. Work disability is, however, not only defined by medical factors. Occupational, personal and societal factors interact with each other and affect the development of work disability in RA. The results of this review emphasize the need for medical and vocational therapy interventions, social support and state policies that target the work status of patients with RA. Future holistic research approaches to the field are required for a complete picture and concrete solutions with the aim of keeping patients with RA employed. Show more

Keywords: Disease activity, work limitations, value of work, workplace dynamics, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213550

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1293-1304, 2021

Authors: Skúladóttir, Edda Björk | Fenger, Kristjana | Bejerholm, Ulrika | Sandqvist, Jan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Evidence-based services in vocational rehabilitation call for valid and reliable assessments of work performance for intervention planning and safe return to work for individuals with illness or injuries. Assessments that are easy to use, culturally adapted, and in a language professionals and clients understand is important for their utility. Translation and adaption of assessments to new languages and cultures are of importance to maintain high standards of assessments and the quality of services in the vocational rehabilitation setting. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to translate and adapt the Assessment of Work Performance (AWP), into the …Icelandic language and culture. Furthermore, to investigate the content validity and utility of the evaluation instrument. METHODS: The study was conducted in two phases. The first phase, based on the Dual-Panel translation method, included two expert panels performing translation and cultural adaption of the original Swedish AWP. In the second phase field testing of the translated instrument was followed by an online survey among vocational rehabilitation professionals for content validation and utility. RESULTS: The results of the study showed satisfactory opinions from experienced professionals toward the content validity, translation, cultural adaption, and utility of the Icelandic version of the AWP. CONCLUSIONS: The study indicates that the Dual-Panel translation method is a valid method when translating instruments from one language and culture to another. Furthermore, the results of the study imply that the AWP can be regarded as content valid up to an acceptable degree for implementation in vocational rehabilitation services in Iceland. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, the Model of Human Occupation, work ability, psychometric properties, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213551

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1305-1316, 2021

Authors: Robertson, Michelle M. | Tubbs, Diana | Henning, Robert A. | Nobrega, Suzanne | Calvo, Alec | Murphy, Lauren A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Organizational readiness for change measures were reviewed to develop an assessment tool for guiding implementation of an occupational safety and health program based on Total Worker Health (TWH) principles. Considerable conceptual ambiguity in the theoretical and empirical peer-reviewed literature was revealed. OBJECTIVE: Develop and validate an assessment tool that organizations can use to prepare for implementation of a participatory TWH program. METHODS: Inclusion criteria identified 29 relevant publications. Analysis revealed eight key organizational characteristics and predictors of successful organizational change. A conceptual framework was created that subject matter experts used to generate …prospective survey items. Items were revised after pretesting with 10 cognitive interviews with upper-level management and pilot-tested in five healthcare organizations. Reliability of the domain subscales were tested based on Cronbach’s α. RESULTS: The Organizational Readiness Tool (ORT) showed adequate psychometric properties and specificity in these eight domains: 1) Current safety/health/well-being programs; 2) Current organizational approaches to safety/health/well-being; 3) Resources available for safety/health/well-being; 4) Resources and readiness for change initiatives to improve safety/health/well-being; 5) Resources and readiness for use of teams in programmatic initiatives; 6) Teamwork; 7) Resources and readiness for employee participation; and 8) Management communication about safety/health/well-being. Acceptable ranges of internal consistency statistics for the domain subscales were observed. CONCLUSIONS: A conceptual model of organizational readiness for change guided development of the Organizational Readiness Tool (ORT), a survey instrument designed to provide actionable guidance for implementing a participatory TWH program. Initial internal consistency was demonstrated following administration at multiple organizations prior to implementation of a participatory Total Worker Health® program. Show more

Keywords: Total worker health, culture, climate, leadership, job design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213552

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1317-1342, 2021

Authors: Noack, Isabel | Linden, Michael

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The workplace can be associated with social stressors like vilification, humiliation, and breach of trust. A common emotional response is embitterment and aggressive behavior. OBJECTIVE: Aim of the study is to investigate the relation between work-related problems, including bullying, and fantasies of aggression. METHODS: Therapists of a department of behavioral medicine routinely had to fill in a diagnostic checklist whenever they saw signs of embitterment and/or aggression in their patients. The type of aggressive fantasies was categorized in no fantasy, minor harm, serious harm without bodily harm, or bodily harm. Independent of this interview, social …workers assessed problems at work (duration of sickness absence, workplace insecurity, bullying at workplace, ability to work, expectation of pension). Patients were also asked to fill in an embitterment questionnaire and the Symptom-Checklist-90. Further sociodemographic and clinical information was taken from the hospital routine documentation. RESULTS: A total of 3211 patients were admitted to the hospital during the observation period. Therapists saw the indication for an in-depth interview because of aggressive fantasies in 102 (3.2%) patients. Aggressive ideations refer to “minor harm” in 27%, “serious harm” in 37%, and “bodily harm” in 35%of patients, respectively. There is a significant relation between the severity of aggressive ideations and bullying and duration of sick leave. There was also a significant correlation between ideas of aggression and feelings of embitterment. CONCLUSION: Aggressive ideations are interrelated with psychosomatic distress and workplace problems and feelings of embitterment. This is of importance for prevention and interventions in regard to workplace bullying. Show more

Keywords: Social stressors, workplace bullying, aggressive ideations, embitterment, non-psychotic patients

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213554

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1343-1349, 2021