Professional Impact of Osteoarticular Trauma

Osteoarticular trauma, particularly limb fractures, is a major public health problem and frequently affects young people of working age. These injuries often result in prolonged interruption of professional activity and significant socioeconomic consequences. Returning to work is a key step in the rehabilitation process after trauma, but it is influenced by a wide range of medical, social, and organizational factors.

Medical determinants include the severity of the injuries, functional limitations, pain, and long-term sequelae. In addition, professional and social factors such as the type of job, employer support, the possibility of workplace accommodations, and administrative procedures related to disability recognition can strongly influence the terms of return to work. Beyond clinical recovery, the organization of care pathways and coordination with occupational health services also play a decisive role in professional reintegration.

This observational study aims to describe the pathways to return to work after osteoarticular trauma in the French context. It will assess the rate of return to work within 12 months of the trauma, as well as the time taken to resume professional activity. It will also analyze the medical, social, and professional factors associated with returning to work, including workplace accommodations and the implementation of administrative measures related to disability.

The study will further explore the point at which the issue of return to work is first raised with patients during hospitalization. This period is a critical phase during which professional reintegration is often insufficiently anticipated. By identifying current practices and the timing of these discussions, the study aims to better characterize existing gaps in the early anticipation of professional return.

By providing descriptive data on the determinants of return to work after osteoarticular trauma, this study aims to improve understanding of professional reintegration pathways and guide the development of future strategies that promote earlier anticipation and enhanced coordination of return to work within healthcare systems and the world of work.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults who were treated for osteoarticular trauma at the hospital between June 2021 and June 2024
• Patients who were employed prior to the injury

Exclusion criteria

• Death or major disability preventing completion of the questionnaire
• Protected persons
• Refusal to participate or no contact after follow-up
• Patients who were unemployed prior to the trauma