Return to work after work-related traumatic brain injury

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Occupational Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Work-related traumatic brain injury (wrTBI) accounts for a significant portion of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
• Limited understanding exists regarding wrTBI, despite substantial economic costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• Compare demographic, clinical, and occupational factors in mild-to-moderate TBI patients who returned to work (RTW) versus those who did not.
• Identify perceived facilitators and barriers to RTW after TBI.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study.
• Utilized surveys and telephone interviews with TBI patients from an outpatient clinic.

Main Results:

• Half of the participants successfully returned to work (RTW).
• The RTW group was younger and more educated.
• Facilitators included support systems and employer accommodations; barriers included cognitive issues and fatigue.

Conclusions:

• Social and employer support are crucial facilitators for RTW after TBI.
• Cognitive difficulties and fatigue are significant barriers to RTW.
• Further research into these factors in TBI rehabilitation is warranted.