As part of our Patient Advocacy Program, MedRisk is committed to informing injured workers on what they can expect when they’re scheduled for workers’ comp-related tests and procedures.

This post is designed to help patients prepare for work hardening or work conditioning. It should not be considered medical advice; if you have specific questions, you should contact your physician or case manager.

What is it?

Work hardening and work conditioning – the phrases are often used synonymously – is typically the last phase of a physical therapy or occupational therapy treatment plan before the patient returns to the job. They use simulated work tasks (which vary depending on the patient’s place of employment) for a safe transition back to the demands of the job, and to prevent re-injury.

What to expect

Pre-exam questions

• You’ll be asked to describe your duties at work, so the physical therapist can design a WH/WC program that mimics them. If you have access to your job description, you should provide it.

What to wear

• For the first WH/WC visit – typically an evaluation of your condition – wear loose, comfortable clothing.
• For subsequent visits, wear what you’d typically wear to work. If you have special accessories or gear – like a tool belt or hard hat – bring them with you.

About the program

• Work hardening and work conditioning are rather intensive processes; they typically consist of 3-5 sessions each week for 2-8 weeks.
• You can expect each session to last 2-4 hours.