Quantifying The Burden of Persistent Musculoskeletal Pain in Employees at Rolls-Royce in The United Kingdom

Abstract

Objective We aimed to investigate the burden of persistent musculoskeletal (MSK) pain in Rolls-Royce UK employees. Methods Employees with (n = 298) and without (n = 329) persistent MSK pain completed a cross-sectional survey. Weighted regression analyses were conducted to compare sickness absence, work ability, workplace accommodations/adaptations, and emotional well-being between these cohorts, controlling for confounders. Results Persistent MSK pain (particularly back pain) had a significant impact on physical work ability and was associated with increased sickness absence due to pain. Many employees (56%) had not disclosed their condition to their managers. Of these, 30% felt uncomfortable doing so, and 19% of employees reported insufficient support at work for their pain. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of creating a workplace culture that encourages the disclosure of work-relevant pain, enabling organizations to consider improved, tailored support for employees.