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Evaluation of the Injured Worker
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Physical Therapy provides evaluation and treatment of musculo-skeletal injuries. Our staff of physical therapists believes that the best outcomes are a result of a team approach to managing the injury. From day one of therapy, the therapist and patient set rehab goals together, with much of the responsibility resting in the hands of the patient. Return to work goals are set at the time of the initial evaluation, with periodic updating made as progress is noted. Our philosophy stresses the importance of personal responsibility for teh care and well-being of one's body, along with education on how to prevent further injuries.
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Individuals with injuries that limit his/her ability to participate in normal work activities may undergo a functional evaluation. There are two basic types of evaluations used:
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- Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) Isernhagen method: 2 day evaluation covering up to 29 different work tasks, including but not limited to the following: lifting, carrying, pushing, bending, reaching and walking. Safe and effective ways to determine current level of functioning. Compares workers to their work, expedites fast and safe return to work.
- Job match comparison included in the report: outline of injured worker's ability as compared to the physical demands of the job (recommendations provided for simple and effective modifications if needed)
- Report provided within one week of testing (often sent out within 48 hours) to authorized parties
- May be requested by the physician, worker' compensation, the employer, or an attorney
- Work Ability Screen (WAS) 1 hour evaluation, covering manual materials handling, work and postures and positions, general strength and stability, and also a job match comparison (if a job description is available)
- May be requested by the physician, workers' compensation, the employer or an attourney
- Frequently the preferred method of determining transitional work restrictions during an injured worker's rehab phase
- Preferred by physicians to aid in completing return to work forms required by insurance companies
- May be repeated during the rehab phase as functional improvements are made
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