Adaptation of a Guide to Equip Employers to Manage the Gradual Return to Work of Individuals with a Musculoskeletal Disorder

Purpose The gradual return to work (GRTW) of injured workers poses numerous challenges for workplaces. The aim of this study was to provide employers with an adapted tool to support them in managing GRTWs following a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), by adapting the Guide for estimation of margin of manoeuvre (Durand et al. in 7th international scientific conference on prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, 2010) and then evaluating the acceptability of the adapted version. Methods A mixed methods design was used. Content experts were surveyed about the content and form of a first version of the adapted tool. Proposed modifications were then discussed in a group meeting until consensus was reached on the changes to be made. The acceptability of the new version was determined by conducting semi-structured interviews of potential users. A thematic analysis of the verbatim transcript was performed. Results Nine experts reached a consensus on 20 modifications, which yielded a tool comprising an instruction guide and a planning worksheet. The eight companies consulted found the tool acceptable, useful, and pertinent, but also identified a few changes to be made. Conclusion The use of original methods made it possible to adapt the content of the tool while taking evidence-based data and user needs into account, all of which contributed to its acceptance. The tool will support employers and standardize management of GRTWs following MSD-related sick leaves. Possible avenues for future research emerged from this study: evaluate the acceptability of new formats and a transdiagnostic version of the tool, and consult workers.