Why should you return to work as quick as possible?!

When people think of work its mostly followed by an eye roll, a sigh and the old statement of “I wish could win the Powerball this Thursday”. But what most people don’t think about is the actual positive health benefits that are associated with working.

Studies have found that people who prolong their return to work or decline recovery at work reduce their their quality of life, face potential job loss, a reduction of lifetime income, can sustain further injuries and also in cases premature death (not to scare you). Studies have also shown that the longer you are away from work the less likely you are to ever return.

With all of this said, I must highlight that for serious injuries a delayed recovery at work or return to work may be necessary to assist with the healing process.

Enough of the negatives… here are some positives. It has been proven that staying active after an injury within the limitations of your injury can reduce pain symptoms and allows the injured worker to not only return to work activities but the activities they enjoy doing outside of work. Working not only provides financial stability for you and your family it can also increase your self-esteem, confidence, teach you new skills, freedom to manage your life and connect with new people and the community.

The process can be quite overwhelming for the injured worker and can come with some stigma associated with being off work. It is important to know that you are not alone, your employer, doctor and health care provider will be there every step of the way to ensure you are performing meaningful tasks within your restrictions to ensure a safe and secure return to full duties.

If you are an injured worker or know someone who is struggling with the management of the return to work process send us a message or give us a call and we will be happy to help!