Workplace injuries are a common occurrence and can happen to anyone, regardless of their job type or occupation. According to the National Safety Council, workplace injuries cost employers over $170 billion every year in medical expenses and lost productivity. Fortunately, physical therapy can play a crucial role in preventing and treating workplace injuries.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of physical therapy for workplace injuries, common types of injuries that can occur in the workplace, and how physical therapy can help individuals recover and prevent future injuries.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a type of treatment that involves exercises and other modalities to help individuals recover from injuries, disabilities, and illnesses. Physical therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.
Physical therapy can help individuals recover from a wide range of injuries, including those that occur in the workplace. By focusing on improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion, physical therapy can help individuals regain their mobility and function.
Common Types of Workplace Injuries
There are many different types of workplace injuries, some of which are more common than others. Some of the most common types of workplace injuries include:
- Strains and Sprains: Strains and sprains are common injuries that occur when muscles or ligaments are overstretched or torn. These injuries can be caused by lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions, or sudden movements.
- Back Injuries: Back injuries are another common type of workplace injury. They can be caused by lifting heavy objects, bending, twisting, or sitting for long periods of time.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed. It can be caused by repetitive motions, such as typing or using a computer mouse.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries: Repetitive strain injuries occur when a person performs the same motion over and over again. These injuries can affect the hands, wrists, shoulders, and neck.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy can play a crucial role in helping individuals recover from workplace injuries. By focusing on improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion, physical therapy can help individuals regain their mobility and function.
Here are some of the ways physical therapy can help individuals recover from workplace injuries:
- Pain Management: Physical therapy can help individuals manage pain through exercises and other modalities, such as massage and heat therapy.
- Improved Range of Motion: Physical therapy can help individuals improve their range of motion, which can help them regain their mobility and function.
- Strengthening: Physical therapy can help individuals strengthen the muscles around the injured area, which can help prevent future injuries.
- Education: Physical therapists can educate individuals on proper body mechanics and ergonomics, which can help prevent future injuries.
Conclusion
Workplace injuries are a common occurrence, but physical therapy can help individuals recover and prevent future injuries. By focusing on improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion, physical therapy can help individuals regain their mobility and function. If you’ve been injured in the workplace, consider talking to a physical therapist to learn more about how physical therapy can help you recover.
See also our information on Work Conditioning / Hardening.