Work conditioning
Structured practice of your job's tasks, led by a physical therapist, for people working toward a return to work.
This care is for you if…
You are off work or on light duty after an injury and want to work toward your regular job
Your job lifts, carries, climbs, kneels or stands for long stretches
Your doctor, your adjuster or your employer asked for a plan to get you ready
You want to know what you can do now and what is still limited
What a visit looks like
What we do
Your therapist builds a set of tasks from your job: lifting, carrying, pushing, reaching, kneeling and standing. You practice them in the gym, with the load, pace and time raised step by step. We coach how you move and change the task when it is too much.
What decides how many visits
What your first test shows, what your job asks, how your body responds and what your doctor and payer allow. Your therapist talks it through with you and changes the plan as you go.
Who treats you
A physical therapist plans and checks your work. A physical therapist assistant may guide your sessions, under that therapist's direction. Your first visit is about an hour.
Meet the teamHow it is paid for
Often by the workers' compensation carrier on your case or by your health plan. We check with the payer you name before you start.
How fees work
- Chest pain, trouble breathing, a sudden severe headache or pain, new weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or a fall with a head injury needs emergency care now. Call 911.
Questions about this care
Is work conditioning the same as work hardening?
They are close. Work conditioning focuses on the physical tasks of the job. Work hardening is a longer program that is more like a work day. Your therapist tells you which fits your case.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Usually your workers' compensation case or your plan asks for one. In Texas you can start some physical therapy without one, within limits the state sets. We check with you before you book.
Will I be tested at my first visit?
Your first visit starts with questions about your job and an exam. A full functional test may come later. Nothing is decided on day one without you.
Request a visit
We hear about your injury at your first visit, not in the form.