How can physical therapists help with workplace injury prevention?

Workplace Injury Prevention

Did you know that there are over 2.9 million workplace injuries in the U.S. each year? Nobody wants to injure themselves at work, which can put many people in a difficult position when they depend on their job. But if you’re wondering how to prevent an injury at the workplace, then you’re making a proactive decision for your health and well-being. So what steps can you take with workplace injury prevention? 

Here’s how a physical therapist can help you prevent an injury at the workplace.

How physical therapy can help with workplace injury prevention

Depending on what kind of job you work, there can be myriad hazards to watch out for. It may not even be something inherently dangerous: Just lifting something the wrong way can lead to a painful back injury! But being informed by a physical therapist can help you be safer at work. Here are some ways physical therapists can help you prevent an injury while on the job:

  • Demonstrating specialized therapeutic exercises that can strengthen the muscle groups used at work while reducing tension in any strained joints.
  • Educating you in the most effective stretching techniques to perform before work to help loosen the muscles so they remain flexible throughout the day. 
  • Performing a thorough physical evaluation to ascertain any ongoing musculoskeletal issues that may eventually lead to an injury. 

What if I already injured myself?

If you have already injured yourself in the past but are concerned about re-injuring the same area, physical therapy can still help. Physical therapists can build you a personalized work hardening program that simulates your normal work environment. In this controlled space, you may be asked to perform similar actions that you might while on the job. With professional oversight, you can help build your body up in a controlled way that negates the risk for injury. It also provides an opportunity for a physical therapist to evaluate your posture. Proper form is important for reducing strain on the body while at work. 

Worried about injuring yourself at work? Panther PT is ready to help you with workplace injury prevention

Hurting yourself at work can be difficult. It’s best to be proactive and try to prevent an injury in the first place. That’s where we come in. Our team at Panther Physical Therapy has years of experience with workers just like you. We are prepared to build you a personalized treatment plan that helps prevent workplace injuries. 

Contact our team today for more information about workplace injury prevention or to schedule an initial appointment.