Arthritis, Joint Pain, and Back Pain
Impact of Arthritis, Joint Pain, and Back Pain at Work
Arthritis, joint pain, and back pain can impact people at work in numerous ways, including:
- Fatigue may affect stamina, ability to concentrate and interact with other people, and resilience
- Pain may affect a person’s ability to do certain tasks if the task requires using a joint that is inflamed
- Problems with mobility and function may create difficulties carrying out certain duties, e.g., reduced dexterity, flexibility, or strength
- Increased pain and stiffness in the morning combined with immobility may create difficulties commuting to and from work
- Decreased cognitive capacity or concentration may reduce work productivity
- Feeling overwhelmed and anxious about their diagnosis and how it might impact their future may affect people’s well-being
It is possible that even employees who don’t have the condition themselves are affected. Family members such as parents or children could have arthritis, and caring for or worrying about them might be just as stressful. Providing information and resources about arthritis, joint pain, and back pain may have an impact beyond your immediate employees.
People often don’t tell their employers or co-workers they have arthritis, joint pain, or back pain because they are concerned it might affect their career trajectory. You could, therefore, have employees with arthritis, joint pain, or back pain that no one knows about. Be aware that employees may be caring for family members with arthritis, joint pain, and back pain and experiencing stress. Therefore, providing information and resources about arthritis, joint pain, and back pain may have a wider benefit.