Occupational role performance in persons with back pain.

Abstract

Back pain is a major cause of work disability but there is little data on the impact of back pain among persons who are working. The purpose of this study was to develop a measure of occupational role performance for individuals with back pain and to examine its relationship with sociodemographic and work-related factors. Item analysis and reduction resulted in a short, eight-item Occupational Role Questionnaire (ORQ) consisting of two scales, a productivity scale and a satisfaction with work scale. The scales had good internal consistency and correlated as expected with the Roland and Morris Disability Scale. In a multivariate logistic model, significant negative effects on work satisfaction were observed for age 30-39 years relative to age 50+, having a job that required lifting, and the level of disability. The ORQ may have applications in studying the consequences of back pain and other chronic conditions in the workplace.