Return to Work

Long term pain reduces an individual's sense of functional abilities.

Loss of employment or being unable to continue to work at a job often result from a patient's inability to continue to work at their position due to pain. Work is often central to one's sense of self and self worth. Most Chronic pain patients want to work however may not be equipped with the tools to allow them to do so. Education in body mechanics, body awareness, ergonomic principles and safe working practices are vital tools that improve functional skills.

At the Northern California Functional Restoration Program the possibility of return to work will be fully explored, Our Program Coordinator will work closely with the insurance carrier, case manager and employer to determine if a return to work is an attainable goal. Any obstacles to return to work will be addressed with the employer, patient and insurer. Ergonomic principles will be explored with each patient. Light duty and work hardening will be addressed with the employers, carriers and/or case managers and put into place when applicable.

If a return to work is not an option, vocational exploration based on the patient’s date of injury will be recommended. Although we do not provide formalized vocational rehabilitation, time will be spent exploring vocational aptitude, labor markets, resume writing, and interviewing.