PURPOSE: The present aim was an overview of factors associated with return to work following vocational rehabilitation for problems in the neck, back, and shoulders. METHOD: Studies were identified through a systematic keyword search in databases. For inclusion, return to work had to be in focus and studies to have been published between 1980 and 2000. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A great number of demographic, psychological, social, medical, rehabilitation-related, workplace-related and benefit-system-related factors are associated with return to work. The different types of risk factor are associated in many ways. People with greater chances of job return after vocational rehabilitation are younger, native, highly educated, have a steady job and high income, are married and have stable social networks, are self-confident, happy with life, not depressed, have low level of disease severity and no pain, high work seniority, long working history and an employer that cares and wishes them back to the work place. Unfortunately, people with the above profile are seldom found among the long-term sick.