There is a wide range of problems that account for occupational injuries such as Injury (head, falls or to the limbs), back pain, poor ergonomics, Sprains and muscle strains, Computer neck and Carpal tunnel amongst a few.
The occupational therapist is involved with workplace assessments which includes:
- examination of the injury status
- Assisting the injured the client to return to pre-injury level of functioning where possible
- biomechanical requirements for tasks at work
- determining availability of alternative/light tasks
- Communicating with key stakeholders (supervisors, Employers, General Practitioner, Health Professionals) to help the client achieve return to work
The occupational therapist assists with gradual return to work by focusing on:
- determining a graded return to work programme
- supervision and advice regarding work practices such as ergonomics
- assist the injured client to maintain a safe level of work activity whilst recovering from an injury
- address barriers to return to work
