Work Hardening Program: An Overview
Work Hardening is a highly structured, intensive, time-limited interdisciplinary treatment program designed to assist a patient in returning to work. The work hardening program is tailored to the job that the patient is returning to. Typically, the Program aims to improve aerobic capacity, muscle strength, endurance, range of motion, and coordination. Treatment includes specific activities that simulate the patient's chosen vocation. The Program consists of specialized equipment, hand tools, a driving simulator, and various workstations to facilitate this process. Psychological treatment also addresses psychosocial barriers to returning to work. After being referred to the Program, the patient will undergo a functional capacity evaluation and a behavioral health assessment. The assessments will develop a personalized treatment plan for the patient. At this point, the patient will get assigned a case manager who will coordinate treatments, monitor progress, and facili...