Introduction:
Did you know that a significant portion of serious injury claims at work are attributed to body stressing injuries, leading to musculoskeletal issues affecting joints, muscles, and connective tissues? In fact, 32.6% of serious injury claims stem from body stressing, with a striking 36.6% related to musculoskeletal injuries. https://data.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/insights/key-whs-stats-2023
Returning to work after a period of absence, whether due to injury, illness, or other health-related issues, can be a challenging and daunting prospect for many individuals. However, with the right support and guidance, the transition back to the workplace can be made smoother and more successful. Exercise physiologists play a crucial role in this process, utilizing their expertise in exercise science and rehabilitation to help individuals regain their physical capabilities, confidence, and independence in the workplace. In this blog post, we'll explore the key elements of how exercise physiologists assist individuals in returning to work and achieving long-term success in their professional endeavours.
By implementing personalized exercise programs designed by experts like exercise physiologists, workers can improve strength, flexibility, and overall physical function. These programs target areas prone to injury, helping individuals build resilience and reduce the risk of future injuries. Investing in exercise-based injury prevention not only protects workers' health but also fosters a safer and more productive work environment. With the right exercise regimen, workers can stay healthy, happy, and thriving on the job.
How it works..
1. Initial Assessment:
The journey back to work begins with a comprehensive assessment conducted by an exercise physiologist. This assessment encompasses a thorough evaluation of the individual's physical condition, including strength, flexibility, endurance, cardiovascular health, and any existing medical conditions or injuries. By gaining a clear understanding of the individual's baseline physical capabilities and limitations, exercise physiologists can develop personalized rehabilitation plans tailored to their unique needs and goals.
2. Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE):
A critical component of the return-to-work process is the functional capacity evaluation (FCE), which assesses an individual's ability to perform job-related tasks and activities. Through a series of tests and measurements, exercise physiologists can identify any physical limitations or functional impairments that may impact the individual's ability to safely and effectively perform their job duties. This valuable information guides the development of targeted exercise programs aimed at improving functional capacity and job readiness.
3. Job Analysis:
To ensure a successful return to work, exercise physiologists collaborate closely with the individual's employer to understand the specific physical demands and requirements of their job. This involves conducting a comprehensive job analysis to identify the essential job tasks, movements, and environmental factors that the individual will encounter in their workplace. By gaining insights into the unique challenges and demands of the job, exercise physiologists can tailor rehabilitation programs to address specific job-related needs and goals.
4. Individualised Exercise Prescription:
Based on the findings of the initial assessment and functional capacity evaluation, exercise physiologists develop individualized exercise prescriptions designed to address the individual's specific needs, goals, and job requirements. These exercise programs may include a combination of strength training, flexibility exercises, cardiovascular conditioning, balance training, and functional movement patterns. By incorporating evidence-based practices and principles of exercise science, exercise physiologists help individuals safely and effectively improve their physical capabilities and readiness for work.
5. Progressive Rehabilitation:
A key principle of rehabilitation is progression, and exercise physiologists employ a progressive approach to help individuals gradually build strength, endurance, and confidence as they prepare to return to work. Progressive rehabilitation programs involve systematically increasing the intensity, duration, and complexity of exercises over time, allowing individuals to safely adapt to increasing demands and challenges. By monitoring progress closely and adjusting the rehabilitation program as needed, exercise physiologists ensure that individuals progress at a pace that is appropriate for them.
6. Workplace Ergonomics and Modifications:
In addition to developing individualized exercise programs, exercise physiologists provide recommendations for workplace ergonomics and modifications to support a safe and healthy return to work. This may involve assessing and optimizing workstations, providing assistive devices or equipment, or modifying job tasks to accommodate the individual's physical abilities and limitations. By creating a supportive work environment that minimizes the risk of injury and promotes proper body mechanics, exercise physiologists help individuals thrive in their professional roles.
7. Education and Support:
Empowering individuals with knowledge and skills is an essential aspect of the
return-to-work process, and exercise physiologists provide education and support to both individuals and their employers. This includes educating individuals on injury prevention, proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and workplace safety practices. By equipping individuals with the tools and strategies they need to manage their health and well-being at work, exercise physiologists empower them to take an active role in their recovery and long-term success.
8. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Throughout the rehabilitation process, exercise physiologists monitor individuals' progress closely and provide ongoing support and guidance. Regular follow-up appointments allow exercise physiologists to assess progress, address any concerns or challenges that arise, and make adjustments to the rehabilitation program as needed. By maintaining open communication with individuals and their employers, exercise physiologists ensure that the return-to-work process remains transparent and cohesive.
Conclusion: Returning to work after an absence can be a significant milestone on the journey to recovery and rehabilitation. Exercise physiologists play a pivotal role in this process, providing individuals with the support, guidance, and expertise they need to regain their physical capabilities, confidence, and independence in the workplace. By employing a comprehensive approach that includes initial assessment, individualized exercise prescription, progressive rehabilitation, workplace ergonomics, education, and support, exercise physiologists help individuals navigate the challenges of returning to work and achieve long-term success in their professional endeavours.
So, If you need help returning to work from injury or simply need to get fitter and stronger for your dream role, book an appointment now and see how an Exercise Physiologist can help you achieve your goal.
Want to know more?
Below are some interesting articles on return to work with exercise.
Cancelliere, C., Donovan, J., Stochkendahl, M. J., Biscardi, M., Ammendolia, C., Myburgh, C., & Cassidy, J. D. (2016). Factors affecting return to work after injury or illness: best evidence synthesis of systematic reviews. Chiropractic & manual therapies, 24, 1-23.DOI 10.1186/s12998-016-0113-z
Nieuwenhuijsen, K., Verbeek, J. H., Neumeyer-Gromen, A., Verhoeven, A. C., Bültmann, U., & Faber, B. (2020). Interventions to improve return to work in depressed people. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (10).Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2020, Issue 10. Art. No.: CD006237.DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006237.pub4.
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Serra, C., Rodriguez, M. C., Delclos, G. L., Plana, M., López, L. I. G., & Benavides, F. G. (2007). Criteria and methods used for the assessment of fitness for work: a systematic review. Occupational and environmental medicine, 64(5), 304.doi: 10.1136/oem.2006.029397