If you have been injured on the job and are now required to attend work conditioning appointments, you may be wondering what to expect. Work conditioning is a process that helps an injured worker return to their job duties. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps involved in work conditioning and what you can expect from your appointment.
What is work conditioning
A work conditioning program prepares your body to do the tasks required at work. The program will help to ease the injured worker back into their job duties by slowly increasing the intensity and duration of the workouts.
The goal of a work conditioning program is to improve the strength, endurance, and range of motion of the injured worker.
Work Conditioning vs Physical Therapy
While work conditioning and physical therapy may sound similar, there are some key differences between the two. Work conditioning is focused on returning the injured worker to their job, while physical therapy is focused on recovering from a specific injury.
Work conditioning programs have the focus of whole body strength and conditioning to get back to work safely. For more information on Physical Therapy vs Work Conditioning read our blog post all about it!
What You Can Expect at Your Appointment
Most physical therapy work conditioning programs have some similarities. However, the exercises and movements practiced will be specific to the person’s job. The goal is to help the individual return to their former job duties as soon as possible.
At your first appointment, the therapist will do a thorough evaluation. This will include a review of your medical history and a physical examination. The therapist will also ask about your job duties and any pain you may be still experiencing.
After the initial evaluation, the therapist will develop a customized program specifically for you. This may include exercises to improve your strength, flexibility, and endurance. The therapist will also provide education on how to prevent further injuries.
Work conditioning programs typically last 2-4 weeks.
During Your Follow Up Work Conditioning Appointments
At your follow-up appointments, the therapist will re-evaluate your progress and make any necessary changes to your program. As you progress, the therapist will gradually increase the intensity of your exercises.
It is important to keep up with your appointments and to do the exercises prescribed in between appointments. This will help to ensure a successful return to work.
However, the structure of the sessions will be significantly different than what you experienced during your traditional physical therapy program.
You will be expected to be mostly independent in performing your exercises. The therapist that is overseeing your program will be present but minimal supervision and assistance will be provided to you. They will be available to check form and answer any questions as well as progress your exercises that you do. They will not be there to walk you through each exercise. This will be your responsibility.
Final Thoughts on What to Expect at Work Conditioning
If you have been injured on the job, work conditioning may be required to help you return to your former duties. In this blog post, we have discussed what work conditioning is and what you can expect from your appointment.
Remember, you will be expected to be mostly independent in performing your exercises. The therapist overseeing your program will provide minimal supervision and assistance. Keep up the good work and we wish you a safe and speedy recovery!
For more information on Work Conditioning at WorkSafe Physical Therapy or to get your employee scheduled give us a call today!
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