Chronic pain

From headaches to respiratory conditions to arthritis, many Americans suffer from chronic pain on the job, but often hide those conditions from employers because they fear the consequences.

“Chronic pain has been categorized as a ‘silent disorder’ in the workplace because most employees are afraid if their employers find out,” Wayne Hochwarter, management professor at Florida State University, told Occupational Hazards magazine.

Hochwarter says his research shows that chronic pain has a significant effect on the worker and the organization. It is associated with:

* more conflict on the job
* less effective communication
* an inability to focus on tasks that require sustained concentration
* less enthusiasm for the job
* fewer favorable interactions with co-workers and supervisors
* more job tension
* higher levels of depressed mood

The results also indicate that chronic pain accounts for over five hours a week of lost productivity, more than $5,000 per employee per year, and also contributes to increased absenteeism and tardiness.

He says employers must take a proactive approach to minimize the undesirable effects. “Education and communication can go a long way in reducing the stigma of chronic pain as a weakness. Organizational support may help sufferers get through the roughest days,” he says.