Work-related injuries are not uncommon. When an injury happens, it can be distressing for both the employee and employer. An orthopedic injury doctor can help to effectively diagnose and treat your injury and prevent future work-related injuries, allowing you to return to work as soon and as safely as possible.
If you have suffered a work-related injury, an orthopedic doctor’s main goal is to help you regain your strength and overall wellness and to reach your physical performance objectives. This allows you to return to work safely and as quickly as possible. An orthopedic doctor is able to provide a number of workers’ compensation services, which include:
- Independent medical examinations (IMEs)
- Prompt treatment of work-related injuries
- Second opinions and transfer of care
- Regular reporting to involved parties
- Preventive care guidance
Medical Assessment by An Orthopedic Doctor
If you are injured at work, the first step is to get a comprehensive medical evaluation by your orthopedic doctor. Independent medical examinations (IMEs) are carried out to assess your injury and level of impairment or disability. It focuses on your physical limitations and capabilities relating to your work duties. The evaluation may include carrying out tests such as a variety of physical performance analysis measures that assess your strength, range of motion, flexibility, and stamina, as well as your ability to lift and hold objects and carry out other specific work-related duties.
Following the comprehensive evaluation, your orthopedic doctor will communicate their findings and recommended treatment plan with all parties involved, including case managers, claims adjusters, employers, and attorneys. This ensures seamless coordination of your care and compliance with workers’ comp insurance requirements in order to get you treated as soon as possible.
Treatment for A Work-Related Injury
Treatment will vary considerably depending on your specific injury or condition. Sometimes rest and applying ice may be all that is required. Other non-surgical treatments may also be necessary to ensure a successful recovery, which may include:
- Medications such as pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines
- Immobilization with a brace, splint, or cast for healing
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- DME (durable medical equipment)
- Orthotics
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
Surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatments do not alleviate symptoms successfully, or if the injury has caused significant damage that requires repair.
Recovering from A Work-Related Injury
Effective rehabilitation following a work-related injury is paramount to a successful recovery. A large proportion of work-related injuries are musculoskeletal. These are conditions that affect muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, or nerves. Rehabilitation is comprehensive and is based on an individualized treatment plan. Engaging in a treatment plan allows for a successful recovery and can reduce the risk of further injury or delays in your recovery. Rehabilitation treatment plans can incorporate a number of different elements, such as physical therapy, to help you return to work as quickly and as safely as possible.
Physical therapy can be a major part of treatment for injured employees, and it can often accelerate recovery. It aims to minimize or eliminate pain, restore mobility, range of motion, and strength in the injured area. It can also help to prevent the injury from recurring in the future.
Returning to Work
When you are ready to return to work, your orthopedic doctor will determine what your appropriate level of participation in work duties should be. They will ensure the activity level is right for your recovery to minimize the risk of further injury. It is important to know your limitations when carrying out duties, as overdoing it could cause a decline in your recovery and put you at risk of further injury.
Your doctor may initially recommend returning to work on a reduced schedule, but this will depend largely on the type and severity of your injury and the success of your recovery. Your employer should endeavor to accommodate your needs and requirements to ensure the transition back into the workplace is as comfortable as possible.
Orthopedic Injury Doctor for Work-Related Injuries in Plantation, FL
If you are looking for quick, effective treatment of work-related injuries, contact the workers’ compensation professionals at Baylis and Brown Orthopedics. Our orthopedic specialists are highly experienced at evaluating and effectively treating injured workers to allow them to return to their jobs and lives.
For more information, call our office today at (954) 476-8800. Alternatively, you can use our secure online appointment request form.
