The contribution of ergonomics to the rehabilitation of back pain patients.

The role of ergonomics in existing rehabilitation programmes is considered through a review of studies undertaken both in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. In general, little consideration has been paid to what the rehabilitees are undertaking in their work or to how intervention at the workplace might be implemented. This occurs despite the evidence that ergonomic advice has been shown to be beneficial. Current approaches to rehabilitation stress the need for the patient to resume normal activities as soon as possible. It seems also prudent to identify ergonomic mismatches in the workplace as soon as possible during rehabilitation in order to reduce the number of repeat attacks. A number of examples have been presented which illustrate how ergonomics can help, and the dangers of inappropriate or delayed interventions. The occupational physician is considered to be a key individual in initiating ergonomic interventions. This is in keeping with the International Labour Office model of occupational health services.