Factors associated with work ability in patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorder grade II-III: A cross-sectional analysis.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the factors related to self-perceived work ability in patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorder grades II-III. DESIGN: Cross-sectional analysis. PATIENTS A total of 166 working age patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorder. METHODS: A comprehensive survey collected data on work ability (using the Work Ability Index); demographic, psychosocial, personal, work- and condition-related factors. Forward, stepwise regression modelling was used to assess the factors related to work ability. RESULTS: The proportion of patients in each work ability category were as follows poor (12.7%); moderate (39.8%); good (38.5%); excellent (9%). Seven factors explained 65% (adjusted R2 = 0.65, p < 0.01) of the variance in work ability. In descending order of strength of association, these factors are greater neck disability due to pain; reduced self-rated health status and health-related quality of life; increased frequency of concentration problems; poor workplace satisfaction; lower self-efficacy for performing daily tasks; and greater work-related stress. CONCLUSION: Condition-specific and psychosocial factors are associated with self-perceived work ability of individuals with chronic whiplash-associated disorder.