The Rising Problem of Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Importance of Work
Long-term disability due to musculoskeletal disorders is a problem which is on the rise in the United States. The U.S. government has taken legislative steps including the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and Americans with Disability Amendment Act (ADAA) to mandate consideration of accommodation for an individual with a disability. Generally, engaging in work prevents disability but may also be a key component in overall recovery from work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
The Role of Physical Therapists in Transitional Work
Progressive transitional work assignments can be facilitated by a physical therapist who can identify essential job functions, recommend accommodations, and be essential in identifying current participatory abilities of the worker with an injury. For workers recovering from musculoskeletal injuries, well designed progressive transitional work assignments can reduce the risk of poor recovery and permanent disability by addressing biopsychosocial factors, including:
- Psychological barriers: low self-efficacy, fear of movement (kinesiophobia), and isolation.
- Social barriers: loss of financial stability, disrupted schedules, and decreased social engagement.
- Biological barriers: deconditioning, changes in motor control, and tissue sensitivity.
Experts Unite to Address Work-Related Disabilities
The OHSIG has gathered a team of experts to discuss the how and why of keeping people with temporary and permanent impairments in the workplace and the positive effect it has on the individual and employer. The legalities of and opportunities for physical therapists to use their unique skills as movement experts will be presented and explored. Our value rests not solely with the patient but can be brought to the employer, thus creating additional opportunities for non-traditional sources of revenue and income.
This session will allow for significant opportunity for attendee directed discussion with a team of experts prepared to share their unique perspectives. The team will include a physician, a multi-line insurance company representative, a private practice owner, an attorney, a physical therapist with specialty in Total Worker Health, and an employer and workers’ compensation manager. Together the speakers will outline the role of the physical therapist in facilitating and coordinating return to work for those with musculoskeletal disorders and how this can affect recovery outcomes and disability.
The Physical Therapist's Role in Disability Prevention through Mitigating Psychosocial Barriers during Return to Work
Combined Sections Meeting
Friday, February 14, 2025 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Key Areas of Focus:
- Legal Considerations: How the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and its amendments (ADAA) shape accommodations for workers.
- Clinical Interventions: Using physical therapy expertise to identify essential job functions, recommend accommodations, and design return-to-work plans.
- Employer Benefits: How physical therapists can create value for employers, tapping into non-traditional revenue sources.
Meet the Panelists
Dr. Adam Seidner, MD, MBA
Chief Medical Officer at The Hartford, Dr. Seidner leverages his background as a physician and public health expert to address injury and illness trends within disability programs. He offers unique insights into the intersection of medical care and benefits administration.
Gwen Simons, Esq, PT, OCS, FAAOMPT
As a physical therapist and attorney, Gwen Simons blends clinical expertise with legal acumen. She frequently serves as an expert witness and contributes to best practice guidelines through the OHSIG of the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy.
David Hoyle, DPT, MA, OCS, COCP
Dr. Hoyle oversees occupational health policies as the National Director of WorkStrategies at Select Medical. With decades of experience, he specializes in developing clinical programs that address the needs of workers recovering from injuries.
Bryan Conner
As the Workers’ Compensation Manager at American Airlines, Bryan Conner manages a nationally recognized program supporting over 150,000 employees. His innovative approach focuses on fostering trust, collaboration, and successful return-to-work outcomes.
Summary
This session underscores the vital role physical therapists play in preventing disability and facilitating recovery. By addressing biopsychosocial barriers, they can help workers return to meaningful employment while creating value for employers. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to enhance their practice and support improved outcomes for patients and businesses alike.
Key Words: return to work, physical therapy, disability prevention
References
- Americans with Disabilities Act. Accessed January 28, 2025. www.ada.gov
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists Guidelines, 2023.
- Hoyle D. National Occupational Health Presentation, 2023.
The author declares no competing interests.
Author Bio:
David Hoyle, DPT, MA, OCS, COCP is the Current OHSIG Nominating Committee Chair.