Work or sick leave?

Ailments from the musculoskeletal system are experienced differently. It varies whether there is a need for sick leave for the individual due to different requirements for functioning in working life. All conditions must therefore be assessed individually.

For most people, being in full or part-time work is an important factor for feeling healthy. Being at work has been shown to enable people to maintain a normal circadian rhythm, getting less pain and faster recovery.

Assessments in relation to sick leave

In the case of severe pain and reduced function in relation to the work requirements, it may be impossible to carry out work. In that case, relief and sick leave from work may be necessary. This applies particularly in the case of acute injuries or illness.

• Full sick leave. The doctor can write a full sick leave if you are unable to carry out any work at all. This is usually done for 1-2 weeks at the start.

• Graded sick leave. If you are able to do some work, but have reduced capacity, the doctor can write a graded sick leave. Then you can have shorter working hours or spend more time on work. You can step up the workload gradually.

• Pending sick leave. If you think you can provide 100% work if you get the work tasks arranged, you can either agree this directly with your employer or get the doctor to write pending sick leave.

• Long-term sick leave. If long-term sick leave is required, the condition and situation must be carefully assessed in collaboration with the doctor, employer and NAV. Research shows that the longer you are away from work, the more difficult it is to return.