Evaluation of a multidisciplinary treatment for patients with chronic non-specific upper-limb musculoskeletal disorders: A pilot study

Abstract

Background. Upper-limb musculoskeletal disorders (ULMSDs) are considered a major health and socio-economic problem. However, knowledge about the effect of treatment programmes is scarce. Objective. To evaluate the effect of a multidisciplinary treatment programme on well-being, disability and return to work in patients with chronic non-specific upper-limb disorders. Methods. A longitudinal and uncontrolled design with pre-post measurements was used. Forty-one patients on long-term sick leave attended for multidisciplinary treatment aimed at training in personal coping strategies and improving activities of daily living. Outcome measures were generic well-being (SF-36), disability (DASH) and return to work (working hours). Results. General well-being improved significantly between pre-treatment and post-treatment. Level of disability declined significantly between pre-treatment and post-treatment. In 63% of the patients, return to own work was complete at follow up, 4 months post-treatment. Conclusion. The results of this uncontrolled intervention study suggest that multidisciplinary treatment programmes improve general well-being, reduce disability and facilitate return to work in patients with chronic non-specific ULMSDs. © Society of Occupational Medicine 2004; all rights reserved.