Characteristics of disability pensioners returning to work: an interview study among individuals with musculoskeletal disorders

Purpose. To explore adaptation patterns among disability pensioners with musculoskeletal disorders returning to work by means of the Swedish law on 'resting disability pension'.

Method. Qualitative analyses of interviews with 17 individuals going back to work.

Results. Three adaptation patterns were identified: The Go-getter, the Realist and the Indifferent. These differed regarding influence factors, own expectations, motive, morals and mentality.

Conclusion. Several actors may support a return to work for individuals who received a disability pension due to musculoskeletal disorders. In order to succeed, however, it is essential that the disability pensioner is motivated for a reconstruction of his/her life.