Self-management program

The lecture explains a self-management program for employees with non-specific arm, neck, and shoulder complaints, known in the Netherlands as CANS. These are musculoskeletal problems without acute trauma, systemic illness, or a clear anatomical diagnosis, and they are often persistent, common, and linked to high healthcare use. The program, called CONTROL CANS, was designed to improve self-management at work and reduce perceived disability. It was built from focus group research with patients and professionals, which identified key problems such as limited knowledge about causes and coping strategies, poor stress management, difficulty setting limits, low confidence, weak communication with supervisors and colleagues, and lack of awareness of emotional factors. Environmental barriers at work, including limited support and inflexible workplaces, were also recognized. The intervention used the ASE model, targeting attitude, social influence, self-efficacy, knowledge, and skills. Sessions covered workload, pain and fatigue, stress, relaxation, healthy lifestyle, communication, asking for help, emotions, and goal setting, supported by an eHealth module. Trial results showed only small measurable benefits, although participants reported satisfaction and practical value.