Work-related injuries are not discriminating. They can happen in a variety of environments due to any number of causes, from heavy lifting in warehouses to repetitive motions in office-based positions. These injuries not only disrupt daily life by increasing pain and limiting mobility, they can keep people out of work longer than expected.
Physical therapy is designed to get you back to work by helping you regain function and recover safely. Today we’ll talk about common workplace injuries and how physical therapy in Michigan helps injured workers on their journey back to recovery.
Top Types of Work-Related Injuries
From sprains and strains to slips and falls, here’s a look at the most common work-related injuries. Unfortunately, despite safety training and awareness programs, workplace injuries are still prevalent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 2.6 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023 alone.
1. Sprains and Strains
Ligament injuries (sprains) and muscle or tendon injuries (strains) can affect the back, shoulders, ankles, and knees. Symptoms range from pain and swelling to limited range of motion.
They are usually the result of:
- Lifting heavy objects
- Slips, trips, or awkward positioning
- Sudden movements or overexertion
2. Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck pain due to muscle strains, disc injuries, or nerve irritation can be caused by:
- Repetitive lifting
- Poor posture or workstation setup
- Sudden trauma, such as falls or vehicle accidents
3. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)
Developing gradually from repeated motions over time, repetitive strain injuries are common in office workers, assembly line employees, and anyone who performs repetitive tasks without proper rest or ergonomic support. These injuries result in:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendinitis
- Tennis elbow
4. Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries
Even minor falls can bring lingering pain and mobility issues if you don’t seek proper and timely treatment. Falls in the workplace can result in these injuries:
- Fractures
- Joint injuries
- Soft tissue damage
5. Overuse and Overexertion Injuries
Prolonged standing, bending, lifting, or pushing on the job commonly lead to overuse injuries. They usually come on gradually and worsen without treatment.
How Physical Therapy Supports Recovery
Physical therapy in Metro Detroit forms the foundation of recovery after a work-related injury. While pain relief is certainly a goal of physical therapy, the main purpose is to identify and address the root cause of the injury, restoring strength, movement, and function. Here’s what you can expect with your physical therapy sessions:
- Your physical therapist will evaluate the injury, job demands, and individual goals to create a customized treatment plan that takes into account the specific movements required for work.
- They will implement targeted exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat, ice, or electrical stimulation in your plan to reduce pain and swelling.
- Because workplaceInjuries often result in muscle weakness, stiffness, and limited range of motion, your physical therapy plan will focus on strengthening injured muscles, improving flexibility and joint mobility, and correcting movement patterns.
- You will learn functional exercises that simulate job-related tasks such as lifting, reaching, or standing for extended periods so you can learn how to safely handle work demands going forward.
- You will also learn proper body mechanics, posture, and lifting techniques to reduce the risk of re-injury. Ergonomic adjustments may be recommended for use in the workplace.
A Safe Return to Work
A successful recovery is about much more than just healing. It’s also about confidently and safely returning to work. The goal of physical therapy is to rebuild physical capacity, regain movement, and return to full or modified duty.
Contact Specialty Physical Therapy
Have you been injured at work? Let our licensed physical therapists help you recover safely and return to your job with confidence. Schedule an evaluation to start your customized treatment plan today so you can get back to work without discomfort.