Clinically Significant Weight Gain 1 Year After Occupational Back Injury

Objective: To examine the incidence of clinically significant weight gain 1 year after occupational back injury, and risk factors for that gain. Methods: A cohort of Washington State workers with wage-replacement benefits for back injuries completed baseline and 1-year follow-up telephone interviews. We obtained additional measures from claims and medical records. Results: Among 1263 workers, 174 (13.8%) reported clinically significant weight gain (≥7%) 1 year after occupational back injury. Women and workers who had more than 180 days on wage replacement at 1 year were twice as likely (adjusted odds ratio = 2.17, 95% confidence interval = 1.54 to 3.07; adjusted odds ratio = 2.40, 95% confidence interval = 1.63 to 3.53, respectively; both P < 0.001) to have clinically significant weight gain. Conclusions: Women and workers on wage replacement for more than 180 days may be susceptible to clinically significant weight gain after occupational back injury.