Tules courses and work capacity
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major cause of reduced work capacity and disability. The aim of Kela's discretionary rehabilitation services is not only to meet the rehabilitation needs of clients, but also to maintain work ability for working-age clients and thereby support coping at work and continuing to work. Every year, thousands of clients in working life participate in targeted rehabilitation courses for people suffering from musculoskeletal disorders, or MSD courses. Based on previous research, efforts have been made to strengthen MSD courses’ connection to working life. The service descriptions of Kela's MSD courses will be revised and, in 2024, fully remote rehabilitation courses will be launched to accompany traditional face-to-face MSD courses.
The study is part of the Effectiveness of rehabilitation research programme, and examines the effects of participating in Kela's rehabilitation course for musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, it examines whether there are differences in the effects of face-to-face rehabilitation courses and fully remote rehabilitation courses. Of particular interest are changes in work ability. Data collection for the study will begin at the beginning of 2025 by Kela's research. The research partner is the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, which has special expertise in assessing work ability.
Researchers
- Saija Karinkanta, vastuututkija
- Johanna Nuojua
- Annina Ropponen (TTL)
- Erja Sormunen (TTL)
- The Rehabilitation effectiveness steering group: Tuula Ahlgren, Hanna Pakkala, Janne Leinonen, Sari Miettinen ja Hennamari Mikkola. In addition, a project group will be appointed for the study during 2024.
Project duration
1.1.2024–31.12.2026
