Do work ability and life satisfaction matter for return to work? Predictive ability of the work ability index and life satisfaction questionnaire among women with long-term musculoskeletal pain

Abstract Background Impaired work ability and reduced life satisfaction due to long-term musculoskeletal pain, particularly in neck, shoulders back, are considered occupational health problems that can result workers taking sick leave. The aim of the study was determine whether predict return (RTW) among women with neck/shoulder and/or back assess Work Ability Index (WAI) Life Satisfaction Questionnaire (LiSat-11) discriminate between those who did RTW not (NRTW). Methods This is a cohort 1-year follow-up. A survey sent 600 receiving leave benefits from Swedish Social Insurance Agency. In total, 208 responded at baseline, 141 To identify predicted RTW, multiple logistic regression analyses were performed without adjustment for type pain intensity. discriminative WAI LiSat-11 NRTW, receiver operating characteristic curves fitted. Results results remained significant after adjusting intensity (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 1.04–1.22). significant. baseline adequately discriminated NRTW 1 year (Area under curve 0.78, 0.70–0.86), but not. Conclusions supports relationship on pain. indicate WAI, LiSat-11, population study. Although needs be verified new samples before it recommended use rehabilitation settings, we suggest healthcare professionals consider how perceive their order better support them RTW.