Work-related accidents can have life-changing consequences, affecting you both physically and emotionally. While the initial shock can be tough to come to terms with, there is hope in the form of physical therapy and rehabilitation to help you on the road to recovery.
Understanding the role of physical therapy
Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a form of treatment that uses physical methods rather than surgery or medication. Some of these methods include exercise, massages, heat treatment, and balance training.
A physical therapist is trained to help restore your strength, activity, and motion following an injury or serious surgery, getting you back on your feet to resume daily life. While some may experience long-term pain issues following an accident, physical therapy can help avoid your dependence on pain medication to manage such pain. Such medication could be costly and lead to adverse side effects. Physical therapy is known to be a safer, most cost-effective treatment alternative.
Benefits of rehabilitation and its different forms
Rehabilitation therapy is designed to restore and maintain an individual’s ability and quality of life following a severe accident. There are several types of rehabilitation therapy, which include:
- Occupational therapy: Restores an individual’s function to perform daily activities. This may include building motor skills, improving balance, or teaching the patient how to use adaptive equipment.
- Speech therapy: Involves improving voice, language, and talking difficulties, as well as impaired swallowing and mouth and tongue movements.
- Vocational rehabilitation: This prepares individuals ahead of their return to work after a serious injury or illness.
Rehabilitation therapy is designed to help individuals regain their independence and functionality and restore their quality of life. And, it’s not just for those who have suffered a long-term illness or injury – it acts as a core health service for anyone who needs it.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation: A holistic approach
Taking a holistic approach to recovery makes it important to understand all the mechanisms involved in the injury. Chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to healing as it recognises that the body is entirely interconnected.
Traditional treatments tend to focus on specific areas related to the injury, whereas chiropractic care addresses the bigger picture. And, this approach offers a drug-free alternative, which may be particularly appealing to those who want to avoid any potential side effects or dependency on medication.
The role of employers and workers’ compensation
All employers have a duty of care to their employees following a workplace accident. They must respond accordingly and look after the employee, making the relevant changes to avoid any further issues. Proper handling of workplace accidents is a legal requirement that organisations must adhere to.
Many work-related injuries are often unavoidable and may have been caused due to employer negligence. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you could be entitled to make a compensation claim, especially if your injury has required you to take time off work or has affected you physically, emotionally, or mentally.
Maintaining progress and preventing recurrence
The road to recovery involves maintaining your progress post-rehabilitation to prevent any recurring injuries. While you may feel better following treatment, it’s important to follow your full recovery programme to ensure you’re back to full health.
By continuing to exercise, eat a balanced diet, and attend period checkups, you’ll be well on your way to long-term recovery.
Beth is Cloudmineinc’s senior health editor and a certified personal trainer. She has over 10 years experience as a science journalist and is the author of two books. She deadlifts over 315 lbs.