A new study published in Spine examines the factors associated with the ability to return to work after cervical radiculopathy surgery.
The researchers examined 201 patients who underwent surgery for cervical radiculopathy. Their work ability was assessed with the Work Ability Index. The researchers found:
1. The average Work Ability Index score was 28.
2. There were six factors significantly associated with work ability, explaining 62 percent of the variance in the Work Ability Index.
3. The factors correlating with greater work ability were:
• Greater self-efficacy in performing self-cares
• Lower physical load on the neck at work
• Greater self-reported chance of being able to work in six months
• Greater use of active coping strategies
• Lower frequency of hand weakness
• Higher health-related quality of life
4. High self-efficacy was most associated with greater work ability.
5. The researchers concluded psychological, work-related and individual factors significantly impacted the patient's ability to return to work. "Consideration of these factors by surgeons preoperatively may provide optimal return to work outcomes after surgery."