Work Conditioning

It is important to return the injured worker back to the workplace promptly to maximize coping skills and functional capacity and return to a normal activity level.  The overall goal of any injured worker rehabilitation program is to shorten the time frame from onset of injury to a return to the work force.  The most efficient outcome is achieved when there is immediate intervention following an injury. 

Injured workers benefit from physical therapy services from the onset of injury through their return to work.  Early physical therapy intervention will help with early motion, reducing pain and swelling, and reinforce a healthy attitude to an early return to work.  Many injured workers who receive appropriate early care return to their job without additional rehabilitation services.  Modified work arrangements can also be very productive in maintaining the injured workers attitude. 

ProPT has a new expanded dedicated space for the injured worker in need of work conditioning.  The facility is equipped with the latest equipment consisting of Paramount Functional Trainer, treadmill, bike, full line of dumbbell weights, lifting station, traditional rehab equipment and work simulation equipment. 

What does the program consist of?

• Initial evaluation by a physical or occupational therapist to assess physical deficits and required work demands.

• Development of individualized treatment plan including cardiovascular exercise, stretching, strengthening and patient education.

• Simulation of work related activity

• Provided in multi-hour sessions up to 4 hrs/daily, usually 3 sessions/week.

Who qualifies for the program?

• Anyone who has been injured on the job who, if they were attending physical/occupational therapy prior, has been formally discharged. 

• Anyone who has an identified physical and functional deficit that interferes with their ability to perform normal work duties.

• Patients must have a work related goal and a willingness to participate.

• A prescription from the doctor is required. 

When is the patient discharged from the program?

• When the goals and outcomes for the patient have been met.

• If the patient is unable to continue because of medical or psychosocial complications.

• If insurance resources have been expended.

• If the patient declines to continue intervention or fails to comply with the requirements of participation.

• If the provider determines that the patient will no longer benefit from the program.

When the patient is discharged from the work conditioning program, the provider shall notify the employer, insurance carrier and referral source, and include the following information:

• Clinical and functional status

• Consult with referring Physician regarding Physical Demand Level  achieved and return to work status.

• Recommendations for follow-up services.

• Functional Capacity Evaluation if indicated to determine return to work capacity.

• Worksite Assessment