Using the ICF as a conceptual framework to guide ergonomic intervention in occupational rehabilitation

Issue title: Occupational Therapists in Work Rehabilitation and Ergonomics

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Leyshon, Rhysa T. | Shaw, Lynn E.

Affiliations: University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada

Note: [] Address for correspondence: Rhysa Leyshon, Graduate Program in Health and Rehabilitation, Elborn College, 1201 Western Rd., London, ON, Canada N6G 1H1. Tel.: +1 519 661 2111 ext. 88979; Fax: +1 519 850 2469; E-mail: rleyshon@uwo.ca

Abstract: Traditional treatment of work-related musculoskeletal disorders focuses on the body functions and body structures aspects of the injury, with little or no attention paid to ergonomics as a form of treatment. The use of ergonomics in preventing disability in injured workers is a relatively new area of study. There are a number of factors that may contribute to the lack of emphasis on ergonomic interventions in the prevention of disability following musculoskeletal injury. For instance, a review of the knowledge base suggests that there is a lack of a formal conceptualization or standardized approach to ergonomics in the return to work process. In part, this lack of consistency may be due to the varied disciplinary backgrounds of ergonomists, leading individuals to view ergonomics from a specific perspective, rather than utilizing a transdisciplinary approach. The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new practice model of occupational rehabilitation ergonomics. The model draws upon the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) and merges this with basic ergonomic and rehabilitation principles.

Journal: Work, vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 47-61, 2008