A work conditioning program is a specialized rehabilitation program designed to help individuals recover from injuries or illnesses and regain their physical abilities necessary for their specific job requirements. Unlike other rehabilitation programs, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, work conditioning programs focus specifically on preparing individuals to return to work and perform their job tasks effectively and safely. These programs typically involve a combination of exercises, functional activities, and simulated work tasks to improve strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall work-related skills.
The goals of a work conditioning program are to restore an individual's physical capabilities, improve their functional abilities, and enhance their overall work performance. The program aims to increase strength, endurance, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness to ensure that individuals can meet the physical demands of their job. Additionally, work conditioning programs focus on improving work-related skills, such as lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and repetitive movements, to help individuals regain their ability to perform their job tasks efficiently and safely.
By Dr. Sean Wells, DPT, PT, OCS, ATC/L, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, CNPT, Cert-DNAs physical therapists (PTs) we do our best to optimize our older clients' strength, balance, and functioning. Obviously, our mainstay interventions focus on exercises, balance training, and adaptive equipment. In our courses, we highlight the importance of Vitamin D status and protein consumption for older adults, to improve balance, strength, and prevent sarcopenia. A recent study in Nature Aging highlights yet another potential dietary component that impacts muscle function: ceramides.Ceramides, a sphingolipid, which is a type of fat, has been shown to reduce muscle mass and functional capacity in rodents. Moreover, it has been shown that offering ceramide-inhibiting medication effectively reverses sarcopenia, which is very promising for human studies. In the current study the authors examined older adults with a genetic variant to inhibit ceramides. The results showed these adults with the variant had significantly better grip strength, walking distance, and sit to stand function: all metrics that Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPT) routinely measure. The next big step for these researchers is understanding how to yield these results via medication and/or dietary changes.Fortunately, other authors have highlighted how PTs and other clinicians can advise their patients on how to naturally reduce ceramides in their diet. In the FRUVEDomic pilot study, authors demonstrated that a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and high in saturated fat, facilitated an increase in hepatic ceramide production. The researchers concluded that even transitioning patients from a standard Western diet to even the US Dietary Guidelines would yield positive responses for aging. Imagine the impact on aging and physical functioning if we took the diet to a bit more extreme, such as the true Mediterranean or predominant plant-based diet? More research is needed, but PTs need to be aware that fruit and vegetable consumption is important for many health outcomes, and screening tools are available and easy to use. We discuss this and more in our courses!If you like what you see here then know there is more in our 3 board-approved continuing education courses on Nutrition specific for Physical Therapists. Enroll today in our new bundled course offering and save 20%, a value of $60!Want to learn in person? Attend a #manualtherapyparty! Check out our course calendar below! Learn more online - new online discussion group included! Want an approach that enhances your existing evaluation and treatment? No commercial model gives you THE answer. You need an approach that blends the modern with the old school. NEW - Online Discussion Group Live cases webinars lecture Live Q&A over 600 videos - hundreds of techniques and more! Check out MMT Insiders Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-19
Andrew finds out the hard way what the term Functional Overlay means in regard to a slow or non responding patient. Have you ever heard of this term or has anything similar ever happened to you? Comment on our socials or on the podcast on Spotify! Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-16
In a recent article in The Lancet Rheumatology, researchers show how lower back pain is a rapidly escalating global issue, affecting an estimated 619 million people in 2020 – nearly 10% of the world’s population. Experts predict that this number will reach 843 million by 2050.Compounding problems in the lower back epidemicAsia and Africa are expected to experience the most significant rise in lower back pain cases. These regions often already face challenges due to limited and overburdened social support systems and healthcare resources.The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the problem. Increased inactivity due to lockdowns and poor ergonomics from remote work setups have contributed to the intensity and prevalence of lower back pain. Additionally, limited access to healthcare services during the pandemic has added to the suffering of individuals already affected by this condition.It’s important to consider that the provided figures may underestimate the true burden, as they do not fully account for the impact of the pandemic.The Societal Burden of Lower Back PainLower back pain imposes a substantial burden on society and the economy. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service spends nearly £5 billion annually on general practitioner appointments alone for this condition.Similarly, the cost of lower back and neck pain in the United States reached a staggering $134 billion in 2016. Of course, the consequences extend beyond the financial costs.Lower back pain leads to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and early retirement, particularly among the working-age population. There is also a strong association between lower back pain and higher rates of depression, leading to prolonged disability and hindering recovery.The researchers warn it is crucial to address the societal impact of lower back pain and develop comprehensive strategies to mitigate its effects.Addressing the Issue of Back Pain GloballyAddressing the global issue of lower back pain will require immediate attention and collaborative efforts. Solutions should prioritize strategies aimed at alleviating lower back pain in the workplace, where many people spend a significant part of their time.Implementing ergonomic practices and promoting physical activity can help prevent and reduce the problem of lower back pain. Moreover, improving access to rehabilitation services is essential for effective management and recovery.Specialized training for healthcare practitioners in the treatment of lower back pain can lead to better outcomes and patient care. Additionally, reducing reliance on ineffective and potentially harmful treatments, such as opioids, is crucial.Finally, the researchers stress that governments, healthcare systems, and policymakers must work together to prioritize lower back pain and allocate resources effectively. By taking proactive measures, we can alleviate the burden of lower back pain and improve the quality of life for millions of individuals worldwide.Are you a professional helping in the fight against lower back pain? Take your practice to the next level with our lumbar area anatomy models.Via Dr. Jerome Fryer - Dynamic Disc DesignsCheck out our EXCLUSIVE Anti-Nocebo BLUE Nucleus Disc Model! This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-12
Andrew Rothschild is back with an interesting case of severe pain and hyperalgesia around the scapula area in a CrossFit Athlete. This is the second time in 1 year after good resolution the year prior. Both times there was no clear cut mechanism of injury. Then randomly on social media, Andrew saw two posts regarding a differential diagnosis of severe pain in this area in overhead athletes. Treatment ended up being the same, but it makes for interesting discussion on how and why these things may happen. Ever seen a case of nerve entrapment like this? Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
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Posted by on 2023-06-08
For this episode, Erson talks about a recent case of marathon runner diagnosed with a grade 1 hamstring strain. It was an insidious onset after wearing orthotics for forefoot overpronation. Ever see anything similar in your practice? Do you screen the spine on every extremity patient? Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-05-30
The duration of a typical work conditioning program can vary depending on the individual's specific needs and the severity of their condition. Generally, these programs last for several weeks, with sessions typically scheduled two to three times per week. The length of the program may also depend on the progress made by the individual during the rehabilitation process. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the individual is physically prepared to return to work and can perform their job tasks without limitations or risk of re-injury.
Work conditioning programs include a variety of exercises and activities that are tailored to the individual's job requirements. These may include strength training exercises to improve muscle strength and endurance, cardiovascular exercises to enhance overall fitness, flexibility exercises to improve range of motion, and functional activities that simulate work tasks. Additionally, work conditioning programs may incorporate job-specific tasks and techniques to help individuals practice and refine their skills necessary for their specific job duties.
Yes, work conditioning programs can be customized to meet the specific needs of an individual's job requirements. The program is designed to address the physical demands and tasks associated with a particular job. The exercises and activities included in the program can be tailored to mimic the movements and requirements of the individual's job, ensuring that they are adequately prepared to return to work and perform their job tasks effectively. This customization helps individuals regain confidence in their abilities and ensures a smooth transition back to their job responsibilities.
Work conditioning programs may be covered by insurance or workers' compensation, depending on the individual's circumstances and the policies of their insurance provider or employer. It is important to check with the insurance company or workers' compensation provider to determine the coverage and eligibility criteria for a work conditioning program. Some insurance plans may require pre-authorization or a referral from a healthcare provider, while workers' compensation may cover the program as part of the rehabilitation process for a work-related injury.
Participating in a work conditioning program can offer several potential benefits. Firstly, it helps individuals regain their physical capabilities and functional abilities, allowing them to return to work and perform their job tasks effectively and safely. The program also helps individuals build strength, endurance, and flexibility, which can improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of future injuries. Additionally, work conditioning programs provide individuals with the opportunity to practice and refine their job-specific skills, boosting their confidence and ensuring a successful return to work. Overall, participating in a work conditioning program can enhance an individual's physical well-being, job performance, and overall quality of life.
The Graston Technique offers several advantages for soft tissue mobilization. Firstly, it is a non-invasive and non-surgical approach, making it a safe option for patients. Additionally, it is highly effective in treating various soft tissue conditions such as scar tissue, muscle strains, and tendonitis. The technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to detect and treat areas of soft tissue dysfunction, allowing for precise targeting and treatment. This targeted approach helps to break down scar tissue, improve blood flow, and promote tissue healing. Moreover, the Graston Technique can be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as exercise and stretching, to enhance overall treatment outcomes. Overall, the Graston Technique provides a unique and effective method for soft tissue mobilization, offering patients a non-invasive and targeted approach to address their specific soft tissue issues.
The principles of tissue healing are essential in guiding treatment interventions. These principles include inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. In the inflammation phase, the body responds to tissue injury by releasing inflammatory mediators, which attract immune cells to the site of injury. This phase is crucial for removing debris and initiating the healing process. The proliferation phase involves the formation of new blood vessels and the production of collagen, which helps in the formation of new tissue. Finally, the remodeling phase focuses on the reorganization and strengthening of the newly formed tissue. Treatment interventions are guided by these principles, aiming to promote and support each phase of tissue healing. For example, interventions may include the use of anti-inflammatory medications to control excessive inflammation, physical therapy to promote blood flow and tissue regeneration, and exercises to improve tissue strength and flexibility. By understanding and applying these principles, healthcare professionals can optimize treatment interventions and facilitate the healing process.
The McKenzie Method, a widely used approach for the classification and treatment of disc herniation, employs a comprehensive system to assess and manage this condition. The method classifies disc herniation based on its location, size, and direction of protrusion, allowing for a more targeted treatment approach. Treatment typically involves a combination of specific exercises and movements that aim to centralize and alleviate symptoms. These exercises focus on promoting proper spinal alignment, reducing pressure on the affected disc, and improving overall spinal function. Additionally, the McKenzie Method emphasizes patient education and self-management techniques, empowering individuals to take an active role in their recovery and prevent future episodes of disc herniation.
Therapists incorporate mindfulness-based techniques into chronic pain management by utilizing various strategies that promote present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of pain. They may guide patients through mindfulness meditation exercises, encouraging them to focus their attention on bodily sensations and observe them without reacting or labeling them as good or bad. Therapists may also teach patients to practice mindful breathing, where they pay attention to their breath as a way to anchor themselves in the present moment and cultivate a sense of calm. Additionally, therapists may incorporate body scan exercises, where patients systematically bring their attention to different parts of their body, noticing any sensations or areas of tension. By integrating these mindfulness-based techniques into chronic pain management, therapists aim to help patients develop a new relationship with their pain, reducing suffering and improving overall well-being.
Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should follow specific exercise guidelines to manage their condition effectively. These guidelines recommend a combination of aerobic exercises, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, along with strength training exercises to improve muscle strength and endurance. It is important for individuals with COPD to engage in regular physical activity to enhance their lung function, reduce breathlessness, and improve overall quality of life. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or a pulmonary rehabilitation specialist to develop an exercise program tailored to the individual's specific needs and limitations. The exercise program should be progressive, starting with low-intensity activities and gradually increasing the duration and intensity over time. Additionally, individuals with COPD should incorporate breathing exercises, such as pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, to improve their breathing efficiency and control. Regular exercise, when done correctly and under professional guidance, can significantly benefit individuals with COPD by improving their exercise tolerance, reducing symptoms, and enhancing their overall well-being.
The Mulligan Concept is a manual therapy approach that focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. It is based on several key principles that guide its application. One of the main principles is the concept of mobilization with movement, which involves applying a sustained glide or sustained natural apophyseal glide to a joint while the patient performs a specific movement. This technique aims to restore normal joint mechanics and improve function. Another principle is the use of pain-free techniques, where the therapist ensures that the treatment does not cause any pain or discomfort to the patient. This helps to create a positive treatment experience and promotes patient compliance. Additionally, the Mulligan Concept emphasizes the importance of patient education and active participation in the treatment process. Patients are encouraged to take an active role in their own recovery by performing prescribed exercises and maintaining good posture and body mechanics. Overall, the key principles of the Mulligan Concept revolve around restoring joint function, minimizing pain, and empowering patients to take control of their own healing process.
Therapists employ various assessment techniques to evaluate and address pelvic floor dysfunction in postpartum women. They may conduct a thorough medical history review, including childbirth details and any existing pelvic floor issues. Physical examinations, such as internal pelvic floor muscle assessments, may be performed to assess muscle tone, strength, and coordination. Additionally, therapists may utilize biofeedback devices to provide real-time feedback on muscle activity. Treatment approaches for pelvic floor dysfunction may include pelvic floor muscle exercises, such as Kegels, to improve muscle strength and coordination. Therapists may also incorporate manual therapy techniques, such as myofascial release or trigger point therapy, to address muscle tension and pain. Education on proper posture, body mechanics, and bladder and bowel habits may also be provided. In some cases, therapists may recommend the use of vaginal weights or electrical stimulation to enhance muscle activation. Overall, therapists tailor their treatment plans to the specific needs of each postpartum woman, aiming to restore optimal pelvic floor function and improve quality of life.