Employers encouraged to support those with back pain

Employers are being advised to provide more support for employees who suffer from back pain.

A guide published by the Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance (ARMA) has been released, suggesting measures such as flexible working and training managers to help those with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the workplace.

MSDs were the cause of up to 10.8 million lost working days in 2008 and 2009. The ARMA is calling for employers to help these people stay in work by working with policy makers and healthcare professionals.

The persistent pain and stiffness that MSDs can cause can reduce quality of life and result in more days off work.

Steve Bevan, managing director of The Work Foundation, said: "Right from the start, the employer, with help from the GP and/or occupational health professional, should be thinking about how the worker can be kept at work." He suggests making temporary changes to their job or reducing their working time.

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