What is a work conditioning program? A work conditioning program is a highly structured, goal-oriented therapeutic intervention focused specifically on getting the patient back to work. This program is individualized towards the patient and their specific job with the goal of restoring strength and endurance. And physical therapy? The goal of physical therapy is to ease pain and restore mobility through certain exercises and treatments. It is used to treat acute and chronic symptoms and to prevent future surgeries or injuries. While both work conditioning programs and physical therapy programs are rehabilitation processes that help patients regain movement and function after an injury, there are several key differences:
The Differences Between Work Conditioning and Physical Therapy
- Program Focus - work conditioning programs are focused on getting the injured worker back to their job, while physical therapy programs have a more general focus on helping patients regain movement and function after an injury.
- Timing in Recovery - work conditioning programs are typically done after the acute phase of an injury has passed, while physical therapy is often started in earlier stages of rehabilitation.
- Duration and Volume - work conditioning visits are anywhere from 2-8 hours, 3-5 days a week for 2-8 weeks. Most physical therapy visits are no more than 1 hour, 2-3 times per week for 10 to 12 visits.
- Progress Measurements - in a work conditioning program, injured workers are specifically assessed in regard to job demands, safety concerns, and definitive job task conditioning. Physical therapy progress is regarded more broadly as improved movement prevented surgery, and eased pain.
A work conditioning program is meant to give the referring provider confidence that the injured worker can safely return to their job. It also has the intent to give the injured worker renewed confidence in their ability to perform job demands. A physical therapy program has the more expansive goal of easing patient pain, improving functionality, and enhancing quality of life.
If you or your loved one finds yourself injured and in need of a work conditioning program, ACE Rehab will work with your insurance and other providers to get you back on the job! It is our job to help you return to the workplace efficiently and sustainably. Call our office for a consultation today!
The team at ACE Rehab is here to guide you after an automobile accident. We will assist you in navigating insurance claims and offer you personalized treatment plans to get you back to your pre-injured self.