Workers Comp in Jacksonville Beach

Work conditioning and work hardening are two types of advanced therapeutic interventions that can help patients recover enough function to return to work after completing traditional physical therapy. These programs use simulated or real work tasks to prepare patients for a safe return to their job duties.

What Can You Expect?

Work conditioning and work hardening programs typically last 4-8 weeks and are tailored to meet the specific job requirements of each patient. Work conditioning sessions typically last 1-3 hours, 2-3 days per week, while work hardening sessions are 2-4 hours, 3-5 days per week. The length and frequency of the program can be adjusted to fit the patient’s work schedule.

At the initial visit, a therapist will assess the injury and discuss the patient’s job duties to determine their functional baseline. The therapist will evaluate the patient’s level of physical activity, aerobic ability, grip strength, core, mobility, and joint strength in relation to their injury.

Once the functional baseline is established, an individualized program is developed to improve the patient’s physical abilities. The program combines cardiovascular and strengthening exercises with stretching and mobility conditioning, tailored to the specific job tasks. Regular progress updates are provided to the referring physician and other authorized parties, including documentation of patient attendance, participation, and progression. When the patient reaches full functionality or a plateau, discharge orders will be issued.

For Injured Workers

For injured workers, work-related injuries can cause significant stress and affect their ability to work and provide for their needs. The focus is on relieving pain quickly, restoring the normal range of motion, strength, flexibility, and stamina, ensuring a complete recovery after necessary surgical procedures, and educating patients on how to manage their injuries and prevent future occurrences.

For Case Managers and Employers

For case managers and employers, comprehensive programs are offered to help injured workers recover quickly and safely, with the goal of restoring optimal function for safe and efficient job performance. Effective case management, detailed and timely reports, and positive communication between health care providers, workers, and case managers are provided for the worker’s compensation case.

Work Hardening in Jacksonville Beach

Work Hardening is a specialized program with a different focus from post-injury therapy. The focus is to get the worker in work shape to successfully return to their pre-injury job. The primary job functions are simulated in the clinic with indirect supervision from a physical therapist. This can be done in a group setting in which each patient is working on the job-specific tasks required to get them back to work. Work Hardening is an ideal way to get a recovered patient back to work while minimizing the potential of re-injury.

Preventative care benefits for employers include decreased turnover, increased worker productivity, a safer work environment, reductions in lost time, and a diminished incidence of fraud and abuse.

Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy

What is workers’ comp physical therapy?

Workers’ comp physical therapy is rehab that helps you recover from an injury you got at work. It’s part of your workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical treatment so you can heal and return to your job safely. A physical therapist will help reduce pain, restore strength, and improve your ability to move after a work-related injury.

Am I eligible for physical therapy through workers’ compensation?

Yes, if your injury is approved under your workers’ comp claim, you’re entitled to medical care—including physical therapy—at no cost to you. Your employer’s insurance should cover therapy as long as it’s considered necessary for your recovery.

Do I need a referral to start physical therapy under workers’ comp?

Usually, yes. Your treating doctor or workers’ comp case manager will refer you to physical therapy if it’s part of your approved treatment plan. You might also need authorization from the workers’ comp insurance provider before you start therapy.

What types of injuries are treated with workers’ comp physical therapy?

Physical therapy can treat a wide range of work-related injuries, including:

• Lower back pain or strain

• Shoulder injuries (like rotator cuff tears)

• Knee injuries and post-surgical rehab

• Neck pain from overuse or lifting

• Repetitive strain injuries (like carpal tunnel)

• Slip, trip, or fall-related trauma

How long will I need physical therapy for a work injury?

It depends on how severe your injury is and how quickly you heal. Some people improve in just a few weeks, while others may need several months of rehab. Your therapist will regularly check your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Will I have to pay for physical therapy?

No, if your treatment is approved through workers’ comp, your employer’s insurance covers 100% of the cost. You shouldn’t receive any bills or have to pay out of pocket.

Can I choose my own physical therapist?

That depends on your state’s workers’ comp rules. Some states allow you to choose your own provider, while others require you to go to one selected by the insurance company or your employer. Check with your case manager to see what applies to your situation.

What happens if I miss or skip therapy sessions?

Missing appointments can slow down your recovery and may affect your benefits. Insurance companies and employers might see it as a sign that you’re not taking your recovery seriously. To stay eligible for full benefits, it’s important to follow your treatment plan closely.

Will physical therapy help me return to work faster?

Yes, physical therapy is designed to get you back to work safely and as soon as possible. It helps rebuild strength, improve function, and prevent reinjury. Therapists can also tailor your treatment to the demands of your job, so you’re better prepared when you return.

Can physical therapy be part of a work conditioning or return-to-work program?

Absolutely. If you need extra help preparing for job tasks, your therapist may include work conditioning or a return-to-work program. These programs focus on rebuilding job-specific strength, stamina, and movement so you’re physically ready to go back without risk.

Work Conditioning in Jacksonville Beach

Work hardening is a specialized program that focuses on getting the worker back into shape to successfully return to their pre-injury job. The primary job functions are simulated in the clinic with indirect supervision from a physical therapist. This can be done in a group setting, with each patient working on the job-specific tasks required to get them back to work. Work hardening minimizes the potential of re-injury and is an ideal way to get a recovered patient back to work.

Work conditioning is similar to work hardening, but is usually performed during post-injury therapy. It includes performing a certain work task as part of the routine therapy

If you’re interested in work conditioning or work hardening programs, contact us today to learn more.