Introduction and objectives: Back pain
is one of the most widespread disorders,
having considerable adverse effects on the
persons concerned and for companies and
the national economy. For the genesis and
prevention of back pain, it is common to apply
bio-mechanical explanatory models and
action concepts which focus on physical risk
factors, whereas the importance of workrelated
psycho-social risk factors is in many
cases not taken sufficiently into account.
This article addresses the question of
which data for the influence of work-related
psycho-social risk factors on back pain are
available in the research literature, and what
can be derived from these findings in terms
of preventing back pain in an industrial setting.
Methods: A literature search was conducted
for this purpose in various databases in the
fields of medicine, psychology and social sciences
(MEDLINE, PSYNDEX, PsychINFO). Furthermore,
an Internet search was carried out
using appropriate search terms.
Results: The literature search shows that
work-related psycho-social risk factors on
their own have an enormous influence on
the genesis and chronicity of unspecific back
pain. A high work pace, little control of working
conditions, monotonous work, gratification
crises, insufficient feedback, lack of social
support from co-workers and superiors, social
conflicts at the workplace and a resulting dissatisfaction
with the working environment
are empirically verified risk factors for back
pain. Other psychological risk factors are depressive
states and unfavourable individual
ways of coping with pain.
Therefore, for preventing and treating
back pain in an industrial setting, it is important
not only to offer physical and relaxation
training and to change specifically inadequate
cognition, coping styles and behaviour
patterns, but also to reduce work-related
stressors and to build up health-promoting
resources. A central role is played here particularly
by work organization measures and
strategies to improve the work climate.
Conclusions: In order to reduce back pain
effectively, it is necessary to adopt a biopsycho-
social concept which takes account
of the multicausality of such disorders. In
recent years it has been verified empirically
that holistic intervention in an industrial setting
pays off – with respect to both health
and finances.
