Health problems are often associated with activity limitations and participation restrictions (ICF, WHO, 2001). An example are problems at work or sick leave. The research question has been whether in these cases activity limitations and participation restrictions refer only to the workplace, or whether and to which degree other areas of life are similarly affected.

Type and degree of participation restrictions in different domains of life were assessed in 382 primary health care patients (aged 18-65) with the IMET, a questionnaire which measures participation restrictions across several domains of life. Additionally, the patients were interviewed about health-related problems at work. IMET scores were compared between patients with and without health related problems at work.

27% of 299 presently employed patients were suffering from workplace problems. These patients had significantly longer durations of sick leave than patients without problems at work and also reported significantly more problems in functioning in general daily activities.

Workplace problems are a frequent topic in primary health care and related to sick leave. Health related problems at work are indicative for problems in functioning in other areas of life as well. Participation restrictions in non-work areas can be early indicators for participation problems at work.