Encouraging patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders to return to work early on a part time basis is better than if they stay off work altogether.

A Finnish randomised controlled study of 60 patients reports that such ‘part time sick leave’ did not exacerbate pain related symptoms and functional disability, and improved self rated general health and health related quality of life in the early stages of work disability.

Source: Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health 2013;39:37-45.