Thus , WIs were seldom design ed to improve return-to-work .
Overall , there was low quality evidence that showed no significant differences between WIs and no intervention for pain prevalence or severity .
If present , significant results in favour of WIs were not sustained across follow-up times .
Overall , this review found low quality evidence that neither supported nor refuted the benefits of any specific WI for pain relief and moderate quality evidence that a multiple-component intervention reduced sickness absence in the intermediate-term , which was not sustained over time .
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common cause of disability in many industrial countries .
Recurrent and chronic pain accounts for a substantial portion of workers ' absenteeism .
Neck pain seems to be more prominent in the general population than previously known .
OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness of workplace interventions ( WIs ) in adult workers with neck pain .
Evaluation of a participatory ergonomic intervention process in kitchen work.
We evaluated a participatory ergonomic intervention process applied in 59 municipal kitchens . In groups of three to five kitchens , the workers participated in eight workshops , and generated and evaluated solutions to optimize musculoskeletal load in their work . An ergonomist initiated and supported the process . By the end , 402 changes were implemented . Evaluative data were collected using research diaries , question naires , and focus group interviews . The intervention model proved feasible and the participatory approach was mostly experienced as motivating . The workers ' knowledge and awareness of ergonomics increased , which improved their ability to tackle ergonomic problems by themselves . The changes in ergonomics were perceived to decrease physical load and improve musculoskeletal health . As hindering factors for implementation , lack of time and motivation , and insufficient financial re sources were mentioned . In addition , the workers expressed a wish for more support from the management , technical staff , and ergonomists
Thus , WIs were seldom design ed to improve return-to-work .
Overall , there was low quality evidence that showed no significant differences between WIs and no intervention for pain prevalence or severity .
If present , significant results in favour of WIs were not sustained across follow-up times .
Overall , this review found low quality evidence that neither supported nor refuted the benefits of any specific WI for pain relief and moderate quality evidence that a multiple-component intervention reduced sickness absence in the intermediate-term , which was not sustained over time .
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common cause of disability in many industrial countries .
Recurrent and chronic pain accounts for a substantial portion of workers ' absenteeism .
Neck pain seems to be more prominent in the general population than previously known .
OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness of workplace interventions ( WIs ) in adult workers with neck pain .