Umeå University's logo

umu.sePublications
Change search
Refine search result
1 - 46 of 46
CiteExportLink to result list
Permanent link
Cite
Citation style
  • apa
  • ieee
  • modern-language-association-8th-edition
  • vancouver
  • Other style
More styles
Language
  • de-DE
  • en-GB
  • en-US
  • fi-FI
  • nn-NO
  • nn-NB
  • sv-SE
  • Other locale
More languages
Output format
  • html
  • text
  • asciidoc
  • rtf
Rows per page
  • 5
  • 10
  • 20
  • 50
  • 100
  • 250
Sort
  • Standard (Relevance)
  • Author A-Ö
  • Author Ö-A
  • Title A-Ö
  • Title Ö-A
  • Publication type A-Ö
  • Publication type Ö-A
  • Issued (Oldest first)
  • Issued (Newest first)
  • Created (Oldest first)
  • Created (Newest first)
  • Last updated (Oldest first)
  • Last updated (Newest first)
  • Disputation date (earliest first)
  • Disputation date (latest first)
  • Standard (Relevance)
  • Author A-Ö
  • Author Ö-A
  • Title A-Ö
  • Title Ö-A
  • Publication type A-Ö
  • Publication type Ö-A
  • Issued (Oldest first)
  • Issued (Newest first)
  • Created (Oldest first)
  • Created (Newest first)
  • Last updated (Oldest first)
  • Last updated (Newest first)
  • Disputation date (earliest first)
  • Disputation date (latest first)
Select
The maximal number of hits you can export is 250. When you want to export more records please use the Create feeds function.
  • 1.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS).
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Hamberg, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS).
    Johansson, Eva E
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Stålnacke, Britt-Marie
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine.
    The meanings given to gender in studies on multimodal rehabilitation for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain: a literature review2016In: Disability and Rehabilitation, ISSN 0963-8288, E-ISSN 1464-5165, Vol. 38, no 23, p. 2255-2270Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess and describe the meanings given to "gender" in scientific publications that evaluate multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary or multimodal rehabilitation for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

    Method: A systematic literature search for papers evaluating multimodal rehabilitation was conducted. The PubMed and EBSCO databases were searched from 1995 to 2015. Two or three researchers independently read each paper, performed a quality assessment and coded meanings of gender using qualitative content analysis.

    Results: Twenty-seven papers were included in the review. Gender was used very differently in the MMR studies investigated but primarily it referred to factual differences between men and women. Only one paper provided a definition of the concept of gender and how it had been used in that study. In the content analysis, the meaning of gender formed three categories: "Gender as a factual difference", "The man is the ideal" and "Gender as a result of social role expectations".

    Conclusions: The meaning of the concept of gender in multimodal rehabilitation is undefined and needs to be developed further. The way the concept is used should be defined in the design and evaluation of multimodal rehabilitation in future studies.

    Implications for rehabilitation

    Healthcare professionals should reflect on gender relations in encounters with patients, selection of patients into rehabilitation programs and design of programs. In rehabilitation for chronic pain the patients' social circumstances and cultural context should be given the same consideration as biological sex and pain symptoms.

  • 2.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Gadin, Katja Gillander
    Struggle for time to teach: Teachers' experiences of their work situation2011In: Work: A journal of Prevention, Assessment and rehabilitation, ISSN 1051-9815, E-ISSN 1875-9270, Vol. 40, no S1, p. S111-S118Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: The objective of this study was to from a gender perspective, explore elementary school teacher' experiences of their work situation, and identify conditions that could be health risks. Participants: Eighteen female teachers who work in an elementary school in Northern Sweden. Method: Thematic interviews were conducted using an interview guide. The interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the transcribed text and interpretations were made within gender theory. Results: Four categories emerged: "Squeezed between dream and reality", "Effort to keep up with demands", "We can make it together" and "The school needs men's qualities". The categories were linked together with the theme "A struggle for time to teach". The theme describes the conflict between the teachers' ambitions to teach and create a stimulating learning environment versus the increased need for behaviour control that took time from classroom work. Beside work at the school, the teachers carried a large burden of domestic work. Conclusions: Teachers' work includes both endless demands and great joy. Their work is structured within the schools gender system in which caring duties are subordinated despite a growing demand for behaviour control. Traditional gender roles affect their domestic work load.

  • 3.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS).
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS). Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Social medicine.
    Sandberg, Susanne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Lindahl, Bernt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Olsson, Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Larsson, Christel
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Food and Nutrition. Department of Food and Nutrition, and Sport Science, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden .
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS).
    Engagement in New Dietary Habits: Obese Women's Experiences from Participating in a 2-Year Diet Intervention2016In: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, ISSN 1070-5503, E-ISSN 1532-7558, Vol. 23, no 1, p. 84-93Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: Dietary weight loss interventions most often result in weight loss, but weight maintenance on a long-term basis is the main problem in obesity treatment. There is a need for an increased understanding of the behaviour patterns involved in adopting a new dietary behavior and to maintain the behaviour over time.

    PURPOSE: The purpose of this paper is to explore overweight and obese middle-aged women's experiences of the dietary change processes when participating in a 2-year-long diet intervention.

    METHODS: Qualitative semi-structured interviews with 12 overweight and obese women (54-71 years) were made after their participation in a diet intervention programme. The programme was designed as a RCT study comparing a diet according to the Nordic nutrition recommendations (NNR diet) and a Palaeolithic diet (PD). Interviews were analysed according to Grounded Theory principles.

    RESULTS: A core category "Engagement phases in the process of a diet intervention" concluded the analysis. Four categories included the informants' experiences during different stages of the process of dietary change: "Honeymoon phase", "Everyday life phase", "It's up to you phase" and "Crossroads phase". The early part of the intervention period was called "Honeymoon phase" and was characterised by positive experiences, including perceived weight loss and extensive support. The next phases, the "Everyday life phase" and "It's up to you phase", contained the largest obstacles to change. The home environment appeared as a crucial factor, which could be decisive for maintenance of the new dietary habits or relapse into old habits in the last phase called "Crossroads phase".

    CONCLUSION: We identified various phases of engagement in the process of a long-term dietary intervention among middle-aged women. A clear personal goal and support from family and friends seem to be of major importance for long-term maintenance of new dietary habits. Gender relations within the household must be considered as a possible obstacle for women engaging in diet intervention.

  • 4.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Malmgren Olsson, Eva-Britt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Brulin, Christine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Gender analysis of musculoskeletal disorders and emotional exhaustion: interactive effects from physical and psychosocial work exposures and engagement in domestic work2012In: Ergonomics, ISSN 0014-0139, E-ISSN 1366-5847, Vol. 55, no 2, p. 212-228Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The objective of this study was to assess the relationships between physical and psychosocial work exposures, engagement in domestic work and work-home imbalance in relation to symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders and emotional exhaustion in white- and blue-collar men and women. Three thousand employees from 21 companies were asked to answer a questionnaire on family structure, household and child care tasks, work exposure, work-home imbalance and symptoms of neck/shoulder disorders, low back disorders and emotional exhaustion. Women reported more musculoskeletal disorders and engagement in domestic work. Adverse at-work exposures were highest in blue-collar women. High engagement in domestic work was not separately associated with symptoms but paid work exposure factors were associated. High engagement in domestic work interacted with adverse work exposure and increased risk estimates for low back disorders and emotional exhaustion. Reported work-home imbalance was associated with neck/shoulder disorders in women and with emotional exhaustion in both women and men.

    Practitioner Summary. The current article adds to earlier research by showing that high engagement in domestic work is not separately associated with increased symptoms, but interacts with psychosocial work exposure variables to produce emotional exhaustion in both women and men and low back disorders in women.

  • 5.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Stenlund, Therese
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Steinholtz, K
    Slunga- Birgander, L
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Perceived benefits from a rehabilitation program: A study on patients with burnout2007Conference paper (Other academic)
  • 6.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Waling, Kerstin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Kadi, Fawzi
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Integrative Medical Biology (IMB), Anatomy.
    Djupsjöbacka, Mats
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, National Institute for Working Life, Umeå , Sweden.
    Thornell, Lars-Eric
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Integrative Medical Biology (IMB), Anatomy.
    Sundelin, Gunnevi
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Effects on physical performance and pain from three dynamic training programs for women with work-related trapezius myalgia2001In: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, ISSN 1650-1977, E-ISSN 1651-2081, Vol. 33, no 4, p. 162-9Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    To compare training programs for women with trapezius myalgia regarding physical performance and pain, 102 women were randomized to strength, endurance, co-ordination and non-training groups. Before and after the intervention, static strength and dynamic muscular endurance in shoulder muscles were measured on a Cybex II dynamometer. Muscle activity in shoulder muscles was monitored via surface EMG. The signal amplitude ratio between the active and passive phase of repeated contractions indicated the ability to relax. Pain at present, pain in general and pain at worst were measured on visual analogue scales. After training, within group comparisons showed that the training groups rated less pain, and in the strength training group ratings of pain at worst differed from the non-training group. Using the non-training group as a reference, static strength increased in the strength and endurance training groups and muscular endurance in all training groups. The study indicates that regular exercises with strength, endurance or co-ordination training of neck/shoulder muscles might alleviate pain for women with work-related trapezius myalgia.

  • 7.
    Bohlin, Anna
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Gustafsson, Per E.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Perceived gender inequality in the couple relationship and musculoskeletal pain in middle-aged women and men2013In: Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, ISSN 1403-4948, E-ISSN 1651-1905, Vol. 41, no 8, p. 825-831Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aims: Musculoskeletal pain is a major health problem, especially in women, and is partially determined by psychosocial factors. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether gender inequality in the couple relationship was related to musculoskeletal pain. Methods: Participants (n=721; 364 women and 357 men) were all individuals living in a couple relationship in the Northern Swedish Cohort, a 26-year Swedish cohort study. Self-administered questionnaire data at age 42 years comprised perceived gender inequality in the couple relationship and musculoskeletal pain (in three locations, summarised into one score and median-split), concurrent demographic factors, psychological distress, and previous musculoskeletal pain at age 30 years. Associations were examined using logistic regression. Results: Gender inequality was positively associated with symptoms of musculoskeletal pain in the total sample, remaining significant after addition of possible confounders and of previous musculoskeletal pain. Separate adjustment for concurrent psychological distress attenuated the association but not below significance. The association was present and of comparable strength in both women and men. Conclusions: Gender inequality in the couple relationship might contribute to the experience of musculoskeletal pain in both women and men. The results highlight the potential adverse bodily consequences of living in unequal relationships.

  • 8.
    Eriksson, Britt-Marie
    et al.
    Centralsjukhuset, Karlstad.
    Arne, Mats
    Uppsala University, Uppsala and County Council of Värmland.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Keep moving to retain the healthy self: the meaning of physical exercise in individuals with Parkinson's disease2013In: Disability and Rehabilitation, ISSN 0963-8288, E-ISSN 1464-5165, Vol. 35, no 26, p. 2237-2244Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore and generate an understanding of the meaning of physical exercise in the lives of individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) participating in an exercise program. Method: A qualitative design, using Grounded Theory methodology, was used. Eleven individuals diagnosed with PD were interviewed. Results: The core category "Keep moving to retain the healthy self" identified the continuing process of maintaining functions and activities in the individuals' lives, in which exercise was a major contribution. Two categories, "Having explicit life goals" and "Having confidence in one's own ability", were important prerequisites for adherence to physical exercise. Four categories - "Taking rational position", "Exercising to slow progression", "Exercising to achieve well-being" and "Using exercise as coping strategy" - were generated as important for starting and maintaining exercise habits. Conclusions: Insights into the process of exercising in view of living with PD were generated, which have implications for strategies in promoting physical exercise in older individuals with PD.

  • 9.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Stenlund, Therese
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Steinholtz, Katarina
    The Stress Clinic, University Hospital of Umeå.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Take charge: Patients' experiences during participation in a rehabilitation programme for burnout2010In: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, ISSN 1650-1977, E-ISSN 1651-2081, Vol. 42, no 5, p. 475-481Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patients with burnout during a rehabilitation programme.

    Patients and methods: Eighteen patients with burnout were interviewed at the end of a one-year rehabilitation programme. The programme consisted of 2 groups, one with a focus on cognitively-oriented behavioural rehabilitation and Qigong and 1 with a focus on Qigong alone. The interviews were analysed using the grounded theory method.

    Results: One core category, Take Charge, and 6 categories emerged. The core category represents a beneficial recovery process that helped the patients to take control of their lives. The common starting point for the process is presented in the 3 categories of Good encounters, Affirmation and Group cohesiveness. The categories were basic conditions for continuing development during rehabilitation. In the categories Get to know myself, How can I be the one I want to be? and Choice of track, the more group-specific tools are included, through which the patients adopted a new way of behaving.

    Conclusion: Patients in both groups experienced group participation as being beneficial for recovery and regaining control of their lives, although in somewhat different way. An experience of affirmation and support from health professionals and group participants is of importance for behavioural change

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 10.
    Gillander Gådin, Katja
    et al.
    Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University.
    Weiner, Gaby
    Centre for Educational Sociology, university of Edinburgh.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    School health promotion to increase empowerment, gender equality and pupil participation: A focus group study of a Swedish elementary school initiative2013In: Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research, ISSN 0031-3831, E-ISSN 1470-1170, Vol. 57, no 1, p. 54-70Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    A school health promotion project was carried out in an elementary school in Sweden where active participation, gender equality, and empowerment were leading principles. The objective of the study was to understand challenges and to identify social processes of importance for such a project. Focus group interviews were conducted with 6 single-sex groups (7–12 year olds) in grade 1–2, grade 3–4, and grade 5–6 on 2 occasions. The analysis used a grounded theory approach. The analysis identified the core category “normalization processes of violence and harassment.” It is argued that school health promotion initiatives need to be aware of normalization processes of violence and, which may be counter-productive to the increase of empowerment and participation among all pupils.

  • 11. Gådin, Katja Gillander
    et al.
    Weiner, Gaby
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Young students as participants in school health promotion: an intervention study in a Swedish elementary school2009In: International Journal of Circumpolar Health, ISSN 1239-9736, E-ISSN 2242-3982, Vol. 68, no 5, p. 498-507Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVES: The aim was to analyse if young students could be substantive participants in a health-promoting school project. The specific aims were to analyse the changes the students proposed in their school environment, how these changes were prioritized by a school health committee and to discuss the students' proposals and the changes from a health and gender perspective.

    STUDY DESIGN: An intervention project was carried out in an elementary school with students (about 150) in Grades 1 through 6. The intervention included small-group discussions about health promoting factors, following a health education model referred to as "It's your decision." At the last of 6 discussions, the students made suggestions for health-promoting changes in their school environment. A health committee was established with students and staff for the purpose of initiating changes based on the proposals.

    METHODS: A content analysis was used to analyse the proposals and the protocols developed by the health committee.

    RESULTS: The analysis showed 6 categories of the students' proposals: social climate, influence on schoolwork, structure and orderliness, security, physical environment and food for well-being. Their priorities corresponded to the students' categories, but had an additional category regarding health education.

    CONCLUSIONS: Principles that guide promoting good health in schools can be put into action among students as young as those in Grades 1 through 6. Future challenges include how to convey experiences and knowledge to other schools and how to evaluate if inequalities in health because of gender, class and ethnicity can be reduced through the focus on empowerment and participation.

  • 12.
    Hammarström, Anne
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Global Health. Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Living in the shadow of unemployment - an unhealthy life situation: a qualitative study of young people from leaving school until early adult life2019In: BMC Public Health, E-ISSN 1471-2458, Vol. 19, no 1, article id 1661Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: Despite the magnitude of youth unemployment there is a lack of studies, which explore the relations between health experiences and labour market position in various contexts. The aim of this paper was to analyse health experiences among young people in NEET (not in education, employment or training) in relation to labour market position from leaving school until early adult life.

    METHOD: The population consists of everyone (six women, eight men) who became unemployed directly after leaving compulsory school in a town in Northern Sweden. Repeated personal interviews were performed from age 16 until age 33. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

    RESULTS: Health experiences can be viewed as a contextual process, related to the different phases of leaving school, entering the labour market, becoming unemployed and becoming employed. Perceived relief and hope were related to leaving compulsory school, while entering the labour market was related to setbacks and disappointments as well as both health-deteriorating and health-promoting experiences depending on the actual labour market position. Our overarching theme of "Living in the shadow of unemployment - an unhealthy life situation" implies that it is not only the actual situation of being unemployed that is problematic but that the other phases are also coloured by earlier experiences of unemployment .

    CONCLUSION: A focus on young people's health experiences of transitions from school into the labour market brings a new focus on the importance of macroeconomic influence on social processes and contextualised mechanisms from a life-course perspective.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 13.
    Hammarström, Anne
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS).
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS). Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Lindahl, Bernt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Larsson, Christel
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Food and Nutrition. Department of Food and Nutrition, and Sport Science, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS). Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Experiences of barriers and facilitators to weight-loss in a diet intervention: a qualitative study of women in Northern Sweden2014In: BMC Women's Health, E-ISSN 1472-6874, Vol. 14, p. 59-Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: There is a lack of research about the experiences of participating in weight-reducing interventions. The aim of this study was to explore barriers and facilitators to weight-loss experienced by participants in a diet intervention for middle-aged to older women in the general population in Northern Sweden.

    METHOD: In the intervention the women were randomised to eat either a Palaeolithic-type diet or a diet according to Nordic Nutrition recommendations for 24 months. A strategic selection was made of women from the two intervention groups as well as from the drop-outs in relation to social class, civil status and age. Thematic structured interviews were performed with twelve women and analysed with qualitative content analyses.

    RESULTS: The results showed that the women in the dietary intervention experienced two main barriers - struggling with self (related to difficulties in changing food habits, health problems, lack of self-control and insecurity) and struggling with implementing the diet (related to social relations and project-related difficulties) - and two main facilitators- striving for self-determination (related to having clear goals) and receiving support (from family/friends as well as from the project) - for weight-loss. There was a greater emphasis on barriers than on facilitators.

    CONCLUSION: It is important to also include drop-outs from diet interventions in order to fully understand barriers to weight-loss. A gender-relational approach can bring new insights into understanding experiences of barriers to weight-loss.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 14.
    Hammarström, Anne
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Johansson, Klara
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Annandale, Ellen
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Aléx, Lena
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Christianson, Monica
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Elwer, Sofia
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Eriksson, Carola
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Gilenstam, Kajsa
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Sports Medicine.
    Gustafsson, Per E.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Harryson, Lisa
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Sociology.
    Lehti, Arja
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Professional Development.
    Stenberg, Gunilla
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Verdonk, Petra
    Central gender theoretical concepts in health research: the state of the art2014In: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, ISSN 0143-005X, E-ISSN 1470-2738, Vol. 68, no 2, p. 185-190Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Despite increasing awareness of the importance of gender perspectives in health science, there is conceptual confusion regarding the meaning and the use of central gender theoretical concepts. We argue that it is essential to clarify how central concepts are used within gender theory and how to apply them to health research. We identify six gender theoretical concepts as central and interlinked-but problematic and ambiguous in health science: sex, gender, intersectionality, embodiment, gender equity and gender equality. Our recommendations are that: the concepts sex and gender can benefit from a gender relational theoretical approach (ie, a focus on social processes and structures) but with additional attention to the interrelations between sex and gender; intersectionality should go beyond additive analyses to study complex intersections between the major factors which potentially influence health and ensure that gendered power relations and social context are included; we need to be aware of the various meanings given to embodiment, which achieve an integration of gender and health and attend to different levels of analyses to varying degrees; and appreciate that gender equality concerns absence of discrimination between women and men while gender equity focuses on women's and men's health needs, whether similar or different. We conclude that there is a constant need to justify and clarify our use of these concepts in order to advance gender theoretical development. Our analysis is an invitation for dialogue but also a call to make more effective use of the knowledge base which has already developed among gender theorists in health sciences in the manner proposed in this paper.

  • 15.
    Hammarström, Anne
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Socialmedicin.
    Lundman, Berit
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Socialmedicin.
    Wiklund, Maria
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Health and masculinities shaped by agency within structures among young unemployed men in a northern Swedish context2015In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 10, no 5, p. 1-18, article id e0124785Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of our paper was to explore expressions of life choices and life chances (aspects of agency within structures) related to power and experiences of health among early unemployed adolescent young men during the transition period to adulthood. These expressions of agency within structure were interpreted in the light of Cockerham’s Health Lifestyles Theory. Furthermore, social constructions of masculinities were addressed in our analysis.

    Repeated interviews with ten young men in a cohort of school leavers were analyzed with qualitative content analysis.

    Cockerham’s model was useful for interpreting our findings and we found disposition to act to be a crucial theoretical tool to capture the will and intentions of participants in relation to health. We developed the model in the following ways: structure and socialization were visualized as surrounding the whole model. Analyses of what enhances or restricts power are important. In addition to practices of health lifestyles, we added experiences of health as outcome as well as emotional aspects in disposition to act. We interpret our findings as constructions of masculinities within certain structures, in relation to choices, habitus and practices.

    Qualitative research could contribute to develop the understanding of the agency within structure relationships. Future studies need to pay attention to experiences of health among young people at the margin of the labor market in various milieus – and to analyze these in relation to gender constructions and within the frame-work of agency within structure.

    Download full text (pdf)
    Hammarström et al 2015
  • 16.
    Hörnqwist Bylund, Sonya
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Experiences and consequences for women with hand-arm vibration2010In: Work: A journal of Prevention, Assessment and rehabilitation, ISSN 1051-9815, E-ISSN 1875-9270, Vol. 35, no 4, p. 431-439Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Vibrating machines are used in a variety of occupations. Exposure to hand-arm vibration can cause vascular, neurological, and muscular symptoms in the hands and arms. This qualitative study provides a deeper understanding of the consequences of vibration injuries in women. In depth interviews were conducted with eight women with vibration injuries. The women were metal and wood product assemblers and dental personnel. The transcribed interviews were analyzed in accordance with the grounded theory method.

    The core category in the findings was "{another life}". This was constructed by the categories "consequences for everyday activities", "work performance", "household duties", "leisure", and "self perception" and shows that the injury had affected most parts of the women's lives and decreased their quality of life. The importance of well-functioning hands in all activities was highlighted. Reduced hand function due to numbness, muscle weakness, and pain caused restricted abilities to perform activities at work, at home, and during leisure time. The women described impact on their self-perception, as the injury had affected them in their roles as a worker, mother, and woman. The findings indicate that a vibration injury is a multidimensional problem that can affect every aspect of an individual's life. Health care providers should be aware of these complex consequences.

  • 17.
    Kadi, F
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Integrative Medical Biology (IMB), Anatomy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Waling, Kerstin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Sundelin, Gunnevi
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Thornell, Lars-Eric
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Integrative Medical Biology (IMB), Anatomy.
    The effects of different training programs on the trapezius muscle of women with work-related neck and shoulder myalgia2000In: Acta Neuropathologica, ISSN 0001-6322, E-ISSN 1432-0533, Vol. 100, no 3, p. 253-8Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of this study was to examine the effects of training on the structural characteristics of the trapezius muscle in women with work-related trapezius myalgia. Muscle biopsies were taken before and after 10 weeks of three different training programs (strength, endurance and coordination). Enzyme-immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess muscle fibre types, fibre area, capillary supply and cytochrome c oxidase (COX) activity. There was an increase in the proportion of type IIA fibres in strength trained group (P < 0.05). Strength training elicited a preferential increase in the area of type II fibres (P < 0.05); both strength and endurance programs induced an increase in the number of capillaries around type I and IIA muscle fibres. Finally, all training programs induced a decrease in the proportion of COX-negative fibres. In conclusion, the trapezius muscle of women with neck and shoulder myalgia is characterised by a great potential of adaptation to physical exercise over a period of 10 weeks. The significant changes in the number of capillaries and the specific changes induced by training at the level of muscle fibres might well explain the improvement of muscle function.

  • 18.
    Khatun, Masuma
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    An epidemiological study of the influence of adolescence and early adulthood factors upon the social class inequity of musculuskeletal pain in young adults.2004In: International Journal of Epidemiology, ISSN 0300-5771, E-ISSN 1464-3685, Vol. 33, p. 1-8Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 19.
    Khatun, Masuma
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    The influence of factors identified in adolescence and early adulthood on social class inequities of musculoskeletal disorders at age 30: A prospective population-based cohort study2004In: International Journal of Epidemiology, ISSN 0300-5771, E-ISSN 1464-3685, Vol. 33, no 6, p. 1353-1360Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background Social class inequities have been observed for most measures of health. A greater understanding of the relative importance of different explanations is required. In this prospective population-based cohort study we explored the contribution of factors, ascertained at different stages between adolescence and early adulthood, to social class inequities in musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) at age 30.

    Methods We used data from 547 men and 497 women from a town in north Sweden who were baseline examined at age 16 and followed up to age 30. Using logistic regression models, we estimated the unadjusted odds ratios (OR) for MSD for blue-collar versus white-collar workers in men and women separately. We assessed the contribution of different factors identified between adolescence and early adulthood by comparing the unadjusted OR for social class differences with OR adjusted for these explanatory factors.

    Results We found significant class differences at age 30 with higher MSD among blue-collar workers (OR = 2.03 in men [95% CI: 1.42, 2.90] and 1.98 in women [95% CI: 1.29, 3.02]). After adjustment for explanatory factors, class differences decreased and were no longer significant, with OR of 1.20 in men (95% CI: 0.76, 1.95) and 1.18 in women (95% CI: 0.69, 2.03). School grades at age 16; being single and alcohol consumption at age 21; having children, restricted financial resources, physical activity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and working conditions at age 30 were important for men; parents' social class, school grade, smoking and physical activity at age 16; being single at age 21; and working conditions at age 30 were important for women.

    Conclusion The accumulation of adverse behavioural and social circumstances from adolescence to early adulthood may be an explanation for the class differences in MSD at age 30. Interventions aimed at reducing health inequities need to consider exploratory factors identified at early and later stages in life, also including structural determinants of health.

  • 20.
    Lundman, Berit
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Norberg, Astrid
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Use of the model of Inner Strength for analysing reflective interviews in a group of healthy middle-aged adults2019In: SAGE Open Medicine, E-ISSN 2050-3121, Vol. 7Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: Inner Strength has been described as a human resource that promotes well-being linked to health. The aim of this study was to explore how Inner Strength and its four dimensions are manifested in interviews in a group of middle-aged healthy women and men.

    Methods: Retrospective reflective interviews with middle-aged healthy women (n = 5) and men (n = 4) selected from a population study were content analysed deductively.

    Results: The following themes and their constituents were found in the respective dimensions of the Model of Inner Strength. Firmness: having a drive to act, being purposeful, having trust in one’s competence, and having a positive view of life. Connectedness: being in community, receiving and giving support, and, receiving and giving care. Creativity: changing unsatisfactory life situations, seeing new opportunities, and realizing dreams. Stretchability: balancing between options, and extending oneself.

    Conclusions: Expressions that were interpreted as belonging to Inner Strength could be referred the different dimensions of Inner Strength. The Model of Inner Strength is suitable for analysing Inner Strength among middle-aged men and women. The findings indicate that Inner Strength can be identified in human beings’ narratives if asked for.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 21.
    Mårell, Lena
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology.
    Lindgren, Monica
    Ternulf Nyhlin, Kerstin
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Berglund, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology.
    "Struggle to obtain redress": women's experiences of living with symptoms attributed to dental restorative materials and/or electromagnetic fields2016In: International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being, ISSN 1748-2623, E-ISSN 1748-2631, Vol. 11, no 1, article id 32820Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of illness and the encounters with health care professionals among women who attributed their symptoms and illness to either dental restorative materials and/or electromagnetic fields, despite the fact that research on health effects from dental fillings or electricity has failed to substantiate the reported symptoms. Thirteen women (aged 37-63 years) were invited to the study and a qualitative approach was chosen as the study design, and data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The analysis was conducted with a constant comparative method, according to Grounded Theory. The analysis of the results can be described with the core category, "Struggle to obtain redress," the two categories, "Stricken with illness" and "A blot in the protocol," and five subcategories. The core category represents the women's fight for approval and arose in the conflict between their experience of developing a severe illness and the doctors' or dentists' rejection of the symptoms as a disease, which made the women feel like malingerers. The informants experienced better support and confirmation from alternative medicine practitioners. However, sick-leave certificates from alternative medicine practitioners were not approved and this led to a continuous cycle of visits in the health care system. To avoid conflicting encounters, it is important for caregivers to listen to the patient's explanatory models and experience of illness, even if a medical answer cannot be given.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 22.
    Norlund, Sofia
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Nordin, Maria
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Stenlund, Therese
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Personal Resources and Support When Regaining the Ability to Work: An Interview Study with Exhaustion Disorder Patients2013In: Journal of occupational rehabilitation, ISSN 1053-0487, E-ISSN 1573-3688, Vol. 23, no 2, p. 270-279Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose The aim of the study was to explore experiences and thoughts in the process of returning to work in employed patients with Exhaustion Disorder. Methods Twelve patients with Exhaustion Disorder (burnout) who had been referred to a Stress Rehabilitation Clinic were interviewed. All patients were employed but a majority was on full or part-time sick leave. Grounded Theory was used as the qualitative method. Results A core category, regaining the ability to work, was developed. Alongside, two categories, internal resources and the external support system, were experienced as being important to the process. The internal resources were expressed through three key features (sub-categories), perceived validation, insights and adaptive coping abilities. The external support system was diverse and described by the sub-categories practical/structural and/or emotional support. Four external support actors were identified; the workplace, health care, the Social Insurance Agency, and the union. The supervisor was described as the most important external actor. Conclusions Internal and external resources are intertwined in the process of regaining the ability to work. The internal resources and external support can directly increase the probability to regain the ability to work. Moreover, these resources can affect each other and thus indirectly have an effect on the process.

  • 23.
    Novak, Masuma
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    A gender and social class inequity in obesity. the role of behavioural, social and psychosocial factors from adolescence until early adulthood: a propective cohort study.2006In: International Journal of Obesity, Vol. 30, p. 191-200Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 24.
    Novak, Masuma
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    A life-course approach in explaining social inequity in obesity among young adult men and women.2006In: International Journal of Obesity, ISSN 0307-0565, E-ISSN 1476-5497, Vol. 30, no 1, p. 191-200Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: To examine the cumulative influence of adverse behavioural, social, and psychosocial circumstances from adolescence to young adulthood in explaining social differences in overweight and obesity at age 30 years and if explanations differ by gender.

    Design: A 14-year longitudinal study with 96.4% response rate.

    Subject: Data from 547 men and 497 women from a town in north Sweden who were baseline examined at age 16 years and prospectively followed up to age 30 years.

    Measurements: Overweight and obesity were ascertained at ages 16 and 30 years. Occupation and education were used to measure socioeconomic status. The explanatory measurements were: age at menarche, smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, TV viewing, home and school environment, social support, social network, and work environment.

    Results: No gender or social difference in overweight was observed at age 16 years. At age 30 years, significantly more men than women (odds ratio (OR)¼2.81, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.14–3.68) were overweight or obese. Educational level was associated with overweight at age 30 years, but not occupational class. Both men (OR¼1.55, 95% CI 1.10–2.19) and women (OR¼1.78, 95% CI 1.16–2.73) with low education (p11 years) were at risk of overweight. The factors that explained the educational gradient in overweight among men were low parental support in education during adolescence, and physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and nonparticipation in any association during young adulthood. The educational gradient in overweight in women was explained mostly by adolescence factors, which include early age at menarche, physical inactivity, parental divorce, not being popular in school, and low school control. Restricted financial resource during young adulthood was an additional explanatory factor for women. All these factors were significantly more common among men and women with low education than with high education.

    Conclusion: Social inequities in overweight reflect the cumulative influence of multiple adverse circumstances experienced from adolescence to young adulthood. Underlying pathways to social inequity in overweight differ between men and women. Policy implications to reduce social inequity in overweight include reduction of social differences in health behaviours and social circumstances that take place at different life stages, particularly psychosocial circumstances during adolescence.

  • 25.
    Novak, Masuma
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Inequalities in smoking: influence of social chain of risks from adolescence to young adulthood: a prospective population-based cohort study.2007In: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, ISSN 1070-5503, E-ISSN 1532-7558, Vol. 14, no 3, p. 181-7Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 26.
    Novak, Masuma
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Social and health-related correlates of intergenerational and intragenerational social mobility among Swedish men and women2012In: Public Health, ISSN 0033-3506, E-ISSN 1476-5616, Vol. 126, no 4, p. 349-357Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: The present study explored the pattern and the determinants of social mobility among men and women both at inter and intragenerational transitional periods. Specifically the study addressed what impact do the various health related measures, health-behaviours, psychosocial environments at home and school, material resources, and ethnicity have on the chances and the direction of social mobility.

    Methods: A Swedish 14-year prospective longitudinal study with 96.5% response rate. Detail information on 546 men and 495 women regarding their occupation, health status, health-related behaviour, psychosocial environment at home and school, material recourses and ethnicity prior to mobility were available from ages 16, 21 and 30. Odds Ratios and 99% confidence interval were calculated using logistic regression to determine social mobility.

    Results: At the inter-generational analyses, being liked in school (liked by the teachers and students) predicted upward mobility in men and women. Additionally, being taller predicted upward mobility in women. Downward mobility was predicted by being less liked in school and smoking for both men and women. Additionally, having an unemployed family member for men and not having an own room for women predicted downward mobility. At the intra-generational analyses, less alcohol consumption for men and better financial resources for women predicted upward mobility. Downward mobility among men was predicted by smoking and having restricted financial resources. The chances and the directions of mobility were not influenced by ethnic background.

    Conclusions: Except height among women, health status was not associated with mobility in this cohort for men or for women neither internor intra-generationally, however material deprivation, economical deprivation, poor health behaviours, and unfavourable school environment were.

  • 27.
    Pohl, Petra
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Nordin, Ellinor
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Lundquist, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå School of Business and Economics (USBE), Statistics.
    Lundin-Olsson, Lillemor
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Gender perspective on fear of falling using the classification of functioning as the model2015In: Disability and Rehabilitation, ISSN 0963-8288, E-ISSN 1464-5165, Vol. 37, no 3, p. 214-222Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Abstract Purpose: To investigate associations between fear of falling (FOF) and recurrent falls among women and men, and gender differences in FOF with respect to International Classification of Functioning (ICF). Methods: Community-dwelling people (n = 230, 75-93 years, 72% women) were included and followed 1 year regarding falls. Data collection included self-reported demographics, questionnaires, and physical performance-based tests. FOF was assessed with the question "Are you afraid of falling?". Results were discussed with a gender relational approach. Results: At baseline 55% women (n = 92) and 22% men (n = 14) reported FOF. During the follow-up 21% women (n = 35) and 30% men (n = 19) experienced recurrent falls. There was an association between gender and FOF (p = 0.001), but not between FOF and recurrent falls (p = 0.79), or between gender and recurrent falls (p = 0.32). FOF was related to Personal factors and Activity and Participation. The relationship between FOF and Personal factors was in opposite directions for women and men. Conclusions: Results did not support the prevailing paradigm that FOF increases rate of recurrent falls in community-dwelling people, and indicated that the answer to "Are you afraid of falling?" might be highly influenced by gendered patterns.

    Implications for Rehabilitation

    The question "Are you afraid of falling?" has no predictive value when screening for the risk of falling in independent community-dwelling women or men over 75 years of age.

    Gendered patterns might influence the answer to the question "Are you afraid of falling?" Healthcare personnel are recommended to be aware of this when asking older women and men about fear of falling.

  • 28.
    Pohl, Petra
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Sandlund, Marlene
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Bergvall-Kårebom, Birgitta
    Luleå universitet.
    Lundin-Olsson, Lillemor
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Melander Wikman, Anita
    Luleå universitet.
    Fall risk awareness and safety precautions taken by older community-dwelling women and men: a qualitative study using focus group discussions2015In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 10, no 3, article id e0119630Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Introduction Daily life requires frequent estimations of the risk of falling and the ability to avoid a fall. The objective of this study was to explore older women's and men's understanding of fall risk and their experiences with safety precautions taken to prevent falls.

    Methods A qualitative study with focus group discussions was conducted. Eighteen community-dwelling people [10 women and 8 men] with and without a history of falls were purposively recruited. Participants were divided into two groups, and each group met four times. A participatory and appreciative action and reflection approach was used to guide the discussions. All discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed by qualitative content analysis, and categories were determined inductively.

    Findings Three categories describing the process of becoming aware of fall risks in everyday life were identified: 1] Facing various feelings, 2] Recognizing one's fall risk, and 3] Taking precautions. Each category comprised several subcategories. The comprehensive theme derived from the categories was "Safety precautions through fall risk awareness". Three strategies of ignoring [continuing a risky activity], gaining insight [realizing the danger in a certain situation], and anticipating [thinking ahead and acting in advance] were related to all choices of actions and could fluctuate in the same person in different contexts.

    Conclusions The fall risk awareness process might be initiated for various reasons and can involve different feelings and precautions as well as different strategies. This finding highlights that there are many possible channels to reach older people with information about fall risk and fall prevention, including the media and their peers. The findings offer a deeper understanding of older peoples' conceptualizations about fall risk awareness and make an important contribution to the development and implementation of fall prevention programmes.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 29.
    Rehn, Börje
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational Medicine.
    Lundström, Ronnie
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Nilsson, Tohr
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Bergdahl, Ingvar A
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Chrisitina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational Medicine.
    From, Carin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Sundelin, Gunnnevi
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational Medicine.
    Järvholm, Bengt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Musculoskeletal symptoms among drivers of all-terrain vehicles2002In: Journal of Sound and Vibration, ISSN 0022-460X, E-ISSN 1095-8568, Vol. 253, no 1, p. 21-29Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of this cross-sectional study was to characterize the risk of experiencing musculoskeletal symptoms in the region of the neck, shoulders and upper and lower back for professional drivers of various categories of all-terrain vehicles and to assess the association between symptoms and duration of exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) and shock from driving all-terrain vehicles. The study group consisted of 215 drivers of forest machines, 137 drivers of snowmobiles and 79 drivers of snowgroomers and a control group of 167 men randomly selected from the general population. The subjects were all from one of the four most northern counties in Sweden and they were all men. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed by use of a standardized questionnaire. In addition, the questionnaire held items about the driving time with all-terrain vehicles and a subjective estimation of exposure to unpleasant movements (shock, jolt, irregular sway). The job strain was measured according to Karasek's demands/control model. The prevalence ratios were adjusted for age, smoking and job strain. Among drivers, significantly increased prevalence ratios within the range of 1∂5–2·9 were revealed for symptoms from the neck–shoulder and thoracic regions during the previous year. None of the driver categories had a statistically significantly increased risk of low back pain. Forest vehicles were those most reported to cause unpleasant movements. In conclusion, drivers of all-terrain vehicles exhibit an increased risk of symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders in the neck–shoulder and thoracic regions. The increased risk is suggested to be related to physical factors such as exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) and shock, static overload or extreme body postures. However, since symptoms of low back pain were not significantly increased, it appears that factors other than WBV would explain the occurrence of symptoms in the group of all-terrain drivers.

  • 30.
    Sandlund, Marlene
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Pohl, Petra
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Skelton, Dawn A.
    Melander-Wikman, Anita
    Bergvall-Kareborn, Birgitta
    Lundin-Olsson, Lillemor
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Gender Perspective on Older People's Exercise Preferences and Motivators in the Context of Falls Prevention: A Qualitative Study2018In: BioMed Research International, ISSN 2314-6133, E-ISSN 2314-6141, article id 6865156Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Several factors have previously been identified to positively influence the uptake and adherence for fall prevention exercise programmes. There is, however, a lack of studies investigating if men and women differ in their views and preferences for fall prevention exercises.

    Aim: To explore exercise preferences and motivators of older community-dwelling women and men in the context of falls prevention from a gender perspective.

    Methods: Workshops including multistage focus group discussions were conducted with 18 older community-dwelling people with and without history of falls. Participants were purposively selected and divided into two groups. Each group met on six occasions over a period of five months. Participatory and Appreciative Action and Reflection methodology was used to guide the discussions. A qualitative content analysis approach was used in the analysis.

    Results: Older participants had many diverse preferences and confirmed that individually tailored exercise, in terms of mode, intensity, challenge, and social context, is important. Moreover, important factors for exercise adherence and maintenance included the experience of individual confirmation; different spirit lifters to increase enjoyment; and personal tricks to maintain exercise routines. The individual differences within genders were more diverse than the differences between women and men.

    Conclusion: Exercise interventions to prevent falls should be individually tailored, based on the specific needs and preferences of the older participant, and do not appear to require gender specific approaches. To increase adherence, intrinsic motivation for exercise may be encouraged by competence enhancing confirmations, energizing spirit lifters, and practical tips for exercise maintenance. The study provides an awareness about women's and men's preferences for fall prevention exercises, and this information could be used as guidance in designing inclusive exercise interventions.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 31.
    Sandlund, Marlene
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Pohl, Petra
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Ahlgren, christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Skelton, Dawn
    Glasgow Caledonian University.
    Lundin-Olsson, Lillemor
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Gender Perspective on Older People’s Preferences for Exercises in the Context of Falls Prevention: A qualitative studyManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim with this study was to explore the preferences of community-dwelling older women and men regarding exercise characteristics in the context of preventing falls. Multistage focus group discussions were conducted with 18 older community-dwelling people with or without a history of falls. Participants were purposively sampled, and divided into two groups. Each group met six times. Participatory and Appreciative Action and Reflection methodology was used to guide the discussions. A qualitative content analysis approach was used in the analysis. Six categories emerged from the analysis. Two categories were related to motives and barriers for uptake, and four categories were related to adherence and maintenance: exercise characteristics; confirmation; spirit lifters and maintenance tricks. Small differences and many similarities in what women and men perceived as motivating factors in an exercise situation were displayed. To conclude, older people have many diverse preferences regarding exercise in the context of preventing falls, and the individual differences within genders seem to be greater than the differences between men and women. Exercise interventions to prevent falls should be individually tailored based on the specific needs and preferences of the older participant. In order to encourage internalization and intrinsic motivation for exercises, autonomy-supportive approaches may be applied and accompanied by competence strengthening confirmations, energizing spirit lifters and practical tips for exercise maintenance

  • 32.
    Sandlund, Marlene
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Skelton, Dawn A.
    Pohl, Petra
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Melander-Wikman, Anita
    Lundin-Olsson, Lillemor
    Gender perspectives on views and preferences of older people on exercise to prevent falls: a systematic mixed studies review2017In: BMC Geriatrics, ISSN 1471-2318, E-ISSN 1471-2318, Vol. 17, article id 58Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: To offer fall prevention exercise programs that attract older people of both sexes there is a need to understand both women's and men's views and preferences regarding these programs. This paper aims to systematically review the literature to explore any underlying gender perspectives or gender interpretations on older people's views or preferences regarding uptake and adherence to exercise to prevent falls. Methods: A review of the literature was carried out using a convergent qualitative design based on systematic searches of seven electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Amed, PsycINFO, Scopus, PEDro, and OTseeker). Two investigators identified eligible studies. Each included article was read by at least two authors independently to extract data into tables. Views and preferences reported were coded and summarized in themes of facilitators and barriers using a thematic analysis approach. Results: Nine hundred and nine unique studies were identified. Twenty five studies met the criteria for inclusion. Only five of these contained a gender analysis of men's and women's views on fall prevention exercises. The results suggests that both women and men see women as more receptive to and in more need of fall prevention messages. The synthesis from all 25 studies identified six themes illustrating facilitators and six themes describing barriers for older people either starting or adhering to fall prevention exercise. The facilitators were: support from professionals or family; social interaction; perceived benefits; a supportive exercise context; feelings of commitment; and having fun. Barriers were: practical issues; concerns about exercise; unawareness; reduced health status; lack of support; and lack of interest. Considerably more women than men were included in the studies. Conclusion: Although there is plenty of information on the facilitators and barriers to falls prevention exercise in older people, there is a distinct lack of studies investigating differences or similarities in older women's and men's views regarding fall prevention exercise. In order to ensure that fall prevention exercise is appealing to both sexes and that the inclusion of both men and women are encouraged, more research is needed to find out whether gender differences exists and whether practitioners need to offer a range of opportunities and support strategies to attract both women and men to falls prevention exercise.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 33.
    Sonntag-Öström, Elisabet
    et al.
    Umeå University, Arctic Research Centre at Umeå University. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Stenlund, Therese
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Nordin, Maria
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Lundell, Ylva
    Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-901 83 Umeå, Sweden.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Annchristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Slunga Järvholm, Lisbeth
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Dolling, Ann
    Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-901 83 Umeå, Sweden.
    "Nature's effect on my mind": patients' qualitative experiences of a forest-based rehabilitation programme2015In: Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, ISSN 1618-8667, E-ISSN 1610-8167, Vol. 14, no 3, p. 607-614Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the personal experiences and perceived effects on mind from visits to forest environments in a subset of patients with severe exhaustion disorder (ED), who participated in a randomized controlled trial for evaluation of forest-based rehabilitation.

    Participants: A subsample of 19 patients with diagnosed ED, who completed the three-month forest-based rehabilitation programme in the ForRest project, was interviewed.

    Method: The forest-based rehabilitation consisted of repeated forest visits with the main objective of spending time in rest and solitude in a chosen forest setting. Semi-structured interviews were carried out and analysed using Grounded Theory.

    Result: A core category and five subcategories were set up to describe the patients' experiences and development during the forest-based rehabilitation. As patients mostly reported that they strove to achieve peace of mind during the forest visits, Striving for serenity was chosen to be the core category. At first the patients were frustrated when left alone with their own thoughts in an unfamiliar forest environment. They gradually became familiar with the forest environments and also found their favourite places where they experienced peace of mind. They were then able to rest and begin reflective thinking about their life situation, which led to ambitions to change it. The preferred forest environments were characterised by openness, light and a good view, and were felt to be undemanding, peaceful and stimulating.

    Conclusion: Visits to the forest provided favourite places for rest, were experienced as restorative, seemed to improved reflection and may have contributed to starting the coping process for these patients. However, forest visits, as the only treatment option, are not sufficient as rehabilitation from severe and long-term ED. We suggest that forest visits should be integrated with cognitive behavioural therapy to further improve the recovery and enhance coping in daily life for these patients.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 34.
    Sonntag-Öström, Elisabet
    et al.
    Umeå University, Arctic Research Centre at Umeå University. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Stenlund, Therese
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Nordin, Maria
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Lundell, Ylva
    Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Slunga Järvholm, Lisbeth
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Dolling, Ann
    Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet.
    "Nature's effect on my mind". Patients' experiences of nature based rehabilitation: a qualitative inquiry.2015In: Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, ISSN 1618-8667, E-ISSN 1610-8167, Vol. 14, no 3, p. 607-14Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 35.
    Stenberg, Gunilla
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS).
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    A gender perspective on physiotherapy treatment in patients with neck and back pain2010In: Advances in Physiotherapy, ISSN 1403-8196, E-ISSN 1651-1948, Vol. 12, no 1, p. 35-41Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Women report more pain from the musculoskeletal system, and more disability, than do men. As a consequence, women more often seek healthcare than men do, and are more often on sick leave. Research shows that female patients and male patients are treated differently by physicians and that the physician's gender also influenced the choice of treatment. The aim was to study whether the patients’ and/or the physiotherapists’ gender influences physiotherapy treatments for patients with neck and/or low back pain. During 3 days in April 2006, 73 physiotherapists in primary care and private practices collected information on 586 patients with neck and/or low back pain. The information included data on the affected pain sites and the treatment procedures used by the physiotherapist. Baseline data on the physiotherapists were collected with a questionnaire. The results showed that female and male physiotherapists mainly used the same treatment procedures, but with some differences. The female physiotherapists used significantly more acupuncture and procedures directed toward treatment of mental function. They also gave their patients a unique combination of treatment procedures to a greater extent than their male colleagues. The malte physiotherapists used significantly more training of joint mobility. Male and female patients were given the same treatment.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 36.
    Stenberg, Gunilla
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    "Getting confirmation": gender in expectations and experiences of healthcare for neck or back patients2012In: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, ISSN 1650-1977, E-ISSN 1651-2081, Vol. 44, no 2, p. 163-171Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: The aim of this study was to explore, from a gender perspective, patients' expectations prior to seeking healthcare for neck or back pain, and their subsequent experiences of the care and rehabilitation they received.

    Methods: Thematized interviews with 12 patients, 7 women and 5 men, using open-ended questions, were analysed according to grounded theory. Each patient was interviewed before their first appointment with a physiotherapist or general practitioner and 3 months later.

    Results: Analysis resulted in 5 categories: "To be taken seriously", "Getting an explanation", "To be invited to participate", "To be assessed and treated individually", and "To be taken care of in a trustworthy environment", which were linked by a core category "Getting confirmation". Two ideal types were identified: the "Confident" type, characterized by self-confidence and pride, and the "Ambiguous" type, characterized by disparagement and shame. The categories were partly perceived in different ways from the two ideal types. The ideal types were not defined by sex; however, more men were found to be of the "Confident" type and more women of the "Ambiguous" type.

    Conclusion: Gender appears to affect expectations and experiences, in addition to how patients view and express their problems. Healthcare professionals should take this into account in consultations.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 37.
    Stenberg, Gunilla
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå Centre for Gender Studies (UCGS). Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    'I am afraid to make the damage worse': fear of engaging in physical activity among patients with neck or back pain : a gender perspective2014In: Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, ISSN 0283-9318, E-ISSN 1471-6712, Vol. 28, no 1, p. 146-154Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Rationale: Neck and back pain are major public health problems in Western societies and cause considerable disability and health service use. Swedish women report more severe neck and back pain compared with Swedish men. Most studies on the aetiology of gender differences in pain deal with biological mechanisms, and less with the role of psychological and sociocultural factors. 'Pain beliefsis a sociocultural factor and can be expressed in different ways among women and men. It is important to know what pain beliefs are held by neck and back pain patients, especially when medical guidelines recommend that back pain patients stay physically active.

    Aim: Exploring pain beliefs in relation to physical activity among neck and back pain patients consulting primary health care.

    Method: Twelve patients (seven women, five men) consulting primary health care for an initial episode of neck or back pain were interviewed before their first appointment with a physiotherapist or general practitioner and 3 months later. The interviews covered patient experiences of neck or back pain, consequences, strategies and treatment experiences. The interviews were analysed with qualitative content analysis from a gender perspective.

    Result: One theme 'Fear of hurting the fragile body' was expressed by all neck or back pain patients. Five categories were identified 'The mechanical body', 'Messages about activity', 'Earlier experiences of pain and activity', 'To be a good citizen' and 'Support to be active' supported or undermined beliefs about pain and physical activity. Gender expressions occurred in the categories 'Messages about activity', 'To be a good citizen' and 'Support to be active'.

    Conclusions: Neck or back pain patients in the study saw the body as fragile and were afraid of hurting it. Notions of gender had an impact on the given advice about activity and on how patients perceived the message about staying active.

  • 38.
    Stenberg, Gunilla
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Lundquist, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå School of Business and Economics (USBE), Statistics.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Patterns of reported problems in women and men with back and neck pain: similarities and differences2014In: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, ISSN 1650-1977, E-ISSN 1651-2081, Vol. 46, no 7, p. 668-675Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: To examine similarities and differences in problem areas reported by women and men who seek physiotherapy for back or neck pain. Methods: Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to analyse questionnaire data including demographics, pain, domestic work, stress, health status, physical disability, psychosocial and physical workload, kinesiophobia and self-efficacy. Most of the questions were recruited from a number of scales, e.g. EuroQol (EQ-5D), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (ODQ), Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, and Functional-Efficacy-Scale. Results: A total of 118 patients (84 women, 34 men) completed the questionnaire. Men and women scored similarly on physical disability, functional self-efficacy and kinesiophobia, but women scored higher on stress reactions and pain intensity. PCA showed that questions about physical disability and functional self-efficacy comprised the first component and explained most of the variance in this patient group. Questions about stress and social support at work constituted the second component. Questions about domestic workload and pain comprised the third component. Gender differences were found in the second and third components. Conclusion: In general, women and men answered questions similarly, but there were differences: more women reported stress, pain and low support at work and more men reported a lower domestic workload.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 39.
    Stenberg, Gunilla
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Lundquist, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umeå School of Business and Economics (USBE), Statistics.
    Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Similarities and differences: patterns of reported problems and ICF classification in women and men with back or neck pain seeking physiotherapy treatmentManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: The primary aim of this study was to examine similarities and differences in problem areas reported by women and men who seek physiotherapy treatment for back or neck pain. A second aim was to evaluate the appropriateness of ICF classification in relation to gender.

    Methods: Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares of latent structures (PLS) were used to analyse questionnaire data including background data, questions about pain, domestic work, stress, EQ-5D, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (ODQ), psychosocial and physical workload, Tampa Scale and Functional Self-Efficacy Scale.

    Results: One hundred and eighteen patients (84 women and 34 men) completed the questionnaire. Men and women scored similarly on the NDI, ODQ, Functional Self Efficacy, and Tampa Scale, but women rated higher on stress reactions. PCA showed that questions from the NDI, ODQ and Functional Self-Efficacy Scale explained most of the variance in this patient group. Questions about stress and social support at work constituted the second component. Questions about domestic workload and pain comprised the third component. Gender differences were found in the two last components.

    Conclusion: Further investigation of the impact of gender on neck and back pain in different cultures is important.

  • 40.
    Stenlund, Therese
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Lindahl, Bernt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Burell, Gunilla
    Knutsson, Anders
    Stegmayr, Birgitta
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine. Medicin.
    Birgander, Lisbeth Slunga
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Patients with burnout in relation to gender and a general population2007In: Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, ISSN 1403-4948, E-ISSN 1651-1905, Vol. 35, no 5, p. 516-523Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aims: The aims of this study were to describe gender differences in patients with burnout and compare these patients with a general population with respect to physical, psychosocial and work variables. Methods: Data were collected from a total of 136 patients (96 women and 40 men, 41,6 ± 7,4 years), diagnosed with stress-related disease and burnout at the Stress Clinic, University Hospital of Umeå. Data on burnout, physical, psychosocial and work characteristics were compared with similar data from a geographical and age-matched population based survey, the 2004 Northern Sweden MONICA study. The survey sample included a total of 573 participants (283 women and 290 men, 40,7 ± 8,5 years). Results: Women with burnout reported a higher rate of impaired awakening, lower job control, greater proportion of unpaid work and worked to a greater extent ``with people'' compared to men. Men with burnout had a more restricted social network and reported working more overtime than women. Patients with burnout reported a higher rate of unemployment, a more restricted social network and higher work demands compared to a general population. Women with burnout reported less emotional support, a more sedentary work situation, high job strain and worked to a greater extent ``with people'' than women from the general population. Conclusions: There are some differences in working conditions and social network between women and men with burnout. Patients with burnout differ from a general population regarding individual and social factors as well as work-related factors.

  • 41.
    Stenlund, Therese
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Lindahl, Bernt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Burell, Gunilla
    Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, University of Uppsala.
    Steinholtz, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Edlund, Curt
    Nilsson, Leif
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics.
    Knutsson, Anders
    Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University.
    Slunga Birgander, Lisbeth
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Cognitively oriented behavioral rehabilitation in combination with Qigong for patients on long-term sick leave because of burnout: REST - a randomized clinical trial2009In: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, ISSN 1070-5503, E-ISSN 1532-7558, Vol. 16, no 3, p. 294-303Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Despite an increase in the occurrence of burnout, there is no agreement on what kind of rehabilitation these patients should be offered.

    Purpose

    Primary aim of this study was to evaluate effects on psychological variables and sick leave rates by two different group rehabilitation programs for patients on long-term sick leave because of burnout. Rehabilitation program A (Cognitively oriented Behavioral Rehabilitation (CBR) and Qigong) was compared with rehabilitation program B (Qigong only).

    Method

    In a randomized clinical trial, 96 women and 40 men with a mean age of 41.6 ± 7.4 years were allocated to one of the two rehabilitation programs.

    Results

    A per-protocol analysis showed no significant difference in treatment efficacy between the groups. Both groups improved significantly over time with reduced levels of burnout, self-rated stress behavior, fatigue, depression, anxiety, obsessive–compulsive symptoms, and sick leave rates. In an intention-to-treat analysis, patients in program A had fewer obsessive–compulsive symptoms and larger effect sizes in self-rated stress behavior and obsessive–compulsive symptoms compared to patients in program B.

    Conclusion

    This study showed no differences in effect between CBR and Qigong compared with Qigong only in a per-protocol analysis. Both rehabilitation programs showed positive effect for patients with burnout.

  • 42.
    Stenlund, Therese
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Birgander, Lisbeth Slunga
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Lindahl, Bernt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Nilsson, Leif
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics.
    Effects of qigong in patients with burnout: a randomized controlled trial2009In: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, ISSN 1650-1977, E-ISSN 1651-2081, Vol. 41, no 9, p. 761-767Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of Qigong in rehabilitation for patients with burnout. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized controlled trial. SUBJECTS: Eighty-two patients (68 women and 14 men, mean age 44.3 (standard deviation 9.1) years) diagnosed with burnout.

    METHODS: Basic care was offered to both the intervention and the control group. Patients in the intervention group received basic care and, in addition, performed Qigong twice a week for 12 weeks. Psychological variables, health-related quality of life, perceived relaxation and physical measurements were assessed at baseline and after the intervention period.

    RESULTS: No significant difference in treatment efficacy between the groups was found by either intention-to-treat or per-protocol analyses. Both groups improved significantly over time, with reduced levels of burnout, fatigue, anxiety and depression, and increased dynamic balance and physical capacity. CONCLUSION: In this study, a Qigong intervention twice a week for 12 weeks had no additional effect beyond basic care for patients with burnout.

  • 43. Stenlund, Therese
    et al.
    Slunga Birgander, L
    Lindahl, B
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy. Sjukgymnastik.
    The effects of Qi Gong in persons with burnout2007Conference paper (Other academic)
  • 44.
    Wahlström, Jens
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Gävle, Sweden.
    Mathiassen, Svend Erik
    Liv, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Hedlund, Pernilla
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Forsman, Mikael
    Upper arm postures and movements in female hairdressers across four full working days2010In: Annals of Occupational Hygiene, ISSN 0003-4878, E-ISSN 1475-3162, Vol. 54, no 5, p. 584-594Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objectives: To describe upper arm postures and movements among female hairdressers, including the variability between hairdressers, between days within hairdresser, and between tasks, as a basis for understanding the characteristics of exposures in the job, considering possible sources of variation and recovery, and discussing appropriate exposure assessment strategies.

    Methods: Data on upper arm postures were collected using inclinometers during four working days the same week from 28 female hairdressers working in 13 salons. Twenty of the hairdressers noted customer on and off times in a diary, to allow separate analyses of customer tasks (CT) and auxiliary non-customer tasks (AT), including breaks. For a number of posture and movement variables, mean values and variance components between subjects (BS) and within subjects between days (BD) were estimated using restricted maximum likelihood algorithms in one-way random effect models.

    Results: For the 20 hairdressers with diaries, CT accounted for 279 min (58%) (SDBS = 39 min and SDBD = 85 min) of the working day and AT and breaks for 207 min (42%) (SDBS = 46 min and SDBD = 88 min). The hairdressers worked with the right arm elevated >60° for 6.8% of the whole job (SDBS = 2.8% and SDBD = 2.0%). On average, the hairdressers worked with the right arm elevated >60° for 9.0% of the time during CT, compared to 3.7% during AT, resulting in a contrast between tasks of 0.35.

    Conclusions: Hairdressers may be at risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders in the neck and shoulders due to a considerable occurrence of highly elevated arms, especially during CT. On the other hand, we do not find reasons to classify hairdressing as a job with too little variation. Posture variability between days within hairdressers was in the same order of magnitude as that between hairdressers, suggesting that ‘typical’ workdays do not exist. The exposure contrast between CT and AT for variables describing elevated arm postures indicates that for these variables a simple task-based approach for estimating job exposure could be successful.

  • 45.
    Wiklund, Maria
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation. Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Public Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Public Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
    Hammarström, Anne
    Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Public Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
    Constructing respectability from disfavoured social positions: exploring young femininities and health as shaped by marginalisation and social context. A qualitative study in Northern Sweden2018In: Global Health Action, ISSN 1654-9716, E-ISSN 1654-9880, Vol. 11, no sup3, article id 1519960Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Gender, class and living conditions shape health and illness. However, few studies have investigated constructs of femininity in relation to health and living conditions among young women who are unemployed and marginalised at an early age.

    Objective: The aim of this research was to elucidate constructs of femininities in relation to structuring living conditions and expressions of health in Northern Swedish women. The time period of interest was the transition from unemployed teenagers to young adults in a social context of high unemployment and societal change across the critical ‘school-to-work-transition’ period of the life course.

    Methods: Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse data from repeated interviews with unemployed young women, aged 16–33 years, during the 1980s and 1990s. These longitudinal interviews were part of a cohort study in a ‘remote’ municipality in Northern Sweden that began in 1981. All girls who were not in education, employment, or training were selected for interview. An inductive analysis phase was followed by a theoretically informed phase. The contextual frame is the Nordic welfare-state model and the ‘caring state’ with its particular focus on basic and secondary education, and women’s participation in the labour market. This focus paralleled high rates of youth unemployment in northern Sweden during the study period.

    Results: The results are presented as the theme of ‘constructing respectability from disfavoured social positions’. Within this theme, and framed by dominant norms of patriarchal femininity, we explored the constructs of normative and altruistic, norm-breaking, and troubled femininity.

    Conclusions: Gender-sensitive interventions are needed to strengthen young women’s further education and positions in the labour market and to preventing exposure to violence. More research on health experiences related to the multitude of constructs of femininities in various social contexts and across the life course is needed to help design and implement such interventions.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 46.
    Åström, Charlotte
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Rehn, Börje
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Ahlgren, Christina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Sundelin, Gunnevi
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy.
    Neuromusculoskeletal symptoms in the trunk and upper extremities among proffessional drivers of all-terrain vehicles in Sweden2007Conference paper (Other academic)
1 - 46 of 46
CiteExportLink to result list
Permanent link
Cite
Citation style
  • apa
  • ieee
  • modern-language-association-8th-edition
  • vancouver
  • Other style
More styles
Language
  • de-DE
  • en-GB
  • en-US
  • fi-FI
  • nn-NO
  • nn-NB
  • sv-SE
  • Other locale
More languages
Output format
  • html
  • text
  • asciidoc
  • rtf