Workplace stretching and other accommodations to enable return to work after a back problem — public administration

This case study presents the successful return to work of a project manager after a year of absence due to piriformis syndrome, which causes pain brought on by prolonged sitting, among other things. Contact and support from her manager and colleagues throughout the worker’s absence made her feel valued, and she made the key decisions about her return-to-work plan.

Since her return, the organisation has adopted a combination of measures — such as a later starting time, voice recognition software and adapted equipment — to help the worker carry out her tasks without discomfort.

This has been complemented by the worker’s proactive attitude, advice from professionals, and her purchase of a stick stool and a smartwatch with a timer used to remind her to take a break from sitting.