You’ve probably heard that physical therapy helps with a work-related injury. But how exactly does it do that? The benefits are numerous and can go far beyond the physical aspects. These treatments include the following: Reducing pain and inflammation, Improving overall strength, Reducing stress and improving range of motion. Read on to learn more. And while you’re there, check out the WCB Therapy Calgary and there different types of physical therapy available.
Reducing pain and inflammation
Physiotherapy is a proven way to reduce pain and inflammation associated with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries and Prevention. This type of treatment can help you avoid new injuries from occurring and improve your overall health. In addition to treating the symptoms, physiotherapists can also teach you ways to avoid overuse and lift safely. Although this treatment is noninvasive, it can be just as effective as surgery. In fact, Ohio law requires workers to try noninvasive treatments for 60 days before undergoing surgery.
Physiotherapy involves the application of massage, manipulation, and exercises to help the injured area recover quickly. By strengthening surrounding muscles, physiotherapy can reduce the severity of the injury and minimize the recovery time. In addition to physiotherapy, exercise can also help prevent future injuries by preventing muscle soreness and improving range of motion. Physiotherapists will teach you ways to do a variety of exercises that can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with work-related injuries and speed up recovery.
Improving overall strength
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are pathological conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Work-related MSDs occur because of repetitive motions that cause damage to the body. They take longer to treat than other types of injuries, and workers with musculoskeletal problems are often out of work for up to four times as long as other types of injuries. Physiotherapy is a vital link in the treatment of work-related injuries, with many benefits for the injured worker.
Improving range of motion
The range of motion of a joint is one of the first steps in the rehabilitation process for a person suffering from a work-related injury. Joint range of motion refers to the extent of movement that a joint is capable of, both in distance and direction. Physiotherapy is a form of physical therapy that focuses on improving range of motion in the joints. A range of motion of a joint should be as high as possible, as it is necessary for normal everyday activity.
Active range of motion is the range of motion achieved when opposing muscles contract, which is less than passive range of movement. It is particularly useful for healing soft tissue lesions, reducing the effects of contracture formation, and enhancing synovial movements. A goniometer is the most common tool used for this type of therapy and can come in a short or long arm variety. A person’s range of motion is important to his or her recovery, and it is important to use the correct physiotherapy equipment to help achieve it.
Relieving stress
Occupational health and safety experts at the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have identified six key causes of work-related stress. One of the most prominent causes of stress is organisational change, particularly for physiotherapists in the NHS. Rising demand for health services also causes stress and can significantly impact workload. Physiotherapists also face additional pressures at home, such as caring for an ageing relative.
A physiotherapist’s initial assessment will determine the exact cause of the stress and then determine a treatment plan. If a person is experiencing persistent stress, they may also benefit from relaxation audio tapes or group relaxation classes. Additionally, physiotherapists with a special interest in stress management will provide patients with relaxation techniques, such as guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, thought stopping, and massage.
