What is the reactivation programme and how does it work?
The reactivation programme is individually designed to return the injured person back to normal function and the working environment in the shortest timeframe possible. It also seeks to instill confidence and educate the clients on how to look after themselves to prevent re injury and further intervention in the future.
This is achieved through an initial one to one session, followed by group sessions, which centre on exercise to build strength and fitness.
This approach is combined with a teaching element, which places the emphasis on the individual to self manage their condition through continuation of the exercise programme.
Clients need to enter into the reactivation programme as soon as a health professional confirms it is safe to do so.
Research indicates that if symptoms last longer than 8 weeks, the client greatly reduces their ability to return to usual activity. As well as their potential to return to work.
The outcome being those involved in the programme can resume normal function and maintain a full unrestricted role at work and future work loss is greatly minimised.The programme lasts for 6 weeks with 2 sessions per week under supervision and additional sessions undertaken at home.
The initial consultation involves
- completion of a full health profile
- objective fitness tests
- agreement of client led goals
- identification of Psychosocial markers that inhibit recovery
This combination gives a baseline to progress and improve upon.
The whole reactivation programme is designed to be flexible throughout, with the quantitative results re assessed at 3 and 6 week intervals to monitor progress and ensure agreed client led goals are attained.
The entire reactivation programme is undertaken in the context of everyday function and the individual’s job role, liaison with other healthcare professionals and adherence to HSE guidelines.
This enables the exact demands of the job to be identified, so the programme includes specific training focused on the job role.
The individual’s return to work is also linked to the reactivation programme, by monitoring and managing activities that increase pain, and advice on new working practices to limit discomfort whilst not effecting production.
This collaborative approach reinforces
“work is good for you, hurt does not mean harm”
