I have probably seen about 750 people with sciatica and I can't ever recall
a case where they could not return to work, providing adequate job
accommodations were made. Sciatica can be very debilitating but in general
people do work and live with it and I have seen some very extreme cases.
(some postural awareness and a spirited rocking footrest can make the world
of difference on many occassions).

In relation to your employee, has this chap ever attended a pain management
course? Is there a specific aspect of the work or work equipent that they
are refusing to use or do? Do they try and keep fit outside of work? Have
they been given a specific advice on how to improve their fitness and
prepare for work?

As an ergonomist undertaking personal risk assessments, I come across this
situation quite often. OH have done what they can, HR then decide on their
options, having done so they have asked for an independent assessment. This
tends to work well as often the client is given the chance to discuss the
situation with an impartial assessor whom they have no history with, this
allows them to tell their story and gives them the chance to open up. This
can help them face up to the situation without the history of previous
meetings and outcomes. It does not always work, but it willl clarify the
situation for both parties and alllow the way forward to be clearly marked
out.

Incidentally, The Government's white paper is trying to end 'sick note
culture', to do this they are cajoling GPs to emphasise the postive benefits
for their patients to return  to work. But, and quite rightly the TUC has
voiced caution, due to the lack of knowledge (little or non-existent) of OH
by most GPs.

Having undertaken ergonomic assessments on a number of GPs their lack of
awareness on basic issues such as posture is a point of considerable concern
and a potential contributing factor to many patients (that I have assessed)
slow return to work. If only they were taught basic ergonomics and knew a
little about workarounds - many of the problems that I come across could be
reduced rather than elongated. This is something that I am instigating at
the moment with local GPs many of whom are quite enthusiastic, as it may
help them to reduce their workload.

Hope what I have said is not too obvious.

Duncan Abbott
www.enriciosmog.com

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