P-277 the Impact of Rapid Access to Occupational Physiotherapy for Healthcare Workers With Musculoskeletal Disorders

Introduction Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) remain the 2nd most common reason for days lost to work-related ill health accounting for 8.9 million days lost in the UK in 2019-2020.1 Studies have shown that early intervention by occupational physiotherapy improved clinical symptoms and work performance and reduced absenteeism and presenteeism.2,3 The impact of a rapid access occupational physiotherapy service for hospital employees presenting with MSDs either directly attributable to work or impacting upon work was assessed. Method A retrospective chart review was completed on 100 employees referred to physiotherapy following occupational health review. Information collected included demographics, presenting complaints, work injuries, quantity of sessions, sick leave, phased return, workplace modifications and treatment response. Results 42% of employees had upper limb MSDs followed by neck/back (38%) and lower limb (20%) MSDs. 79% worked in roles with significant manual handling duties. 31% reported a work-related injury and 83% described symptoms exacerbated by work. 70% were reviewed within 2 weeks with 48% requiring 1-2 sessions (mean 2.86). 34% took sick leave with a mean of 62 days (range 1-240). 94% successfully returned to work; 50% required workplace modifications & 21% required phased returns. 83% reported improvement or resolution of symptoms. Discussion Timely access to occupational physiotherapy combined with workplace modifications and phased returns, optimized overall recovery and facilitated the majority of employees to remain at work or successfully return to work. Conclusion Given the physical nature of healthcare roles, early occupational support for MSDs is essential to maintain a healthy workforce, reduce sick leave and improve performance in the workplace.