This study provides evidence that pre-work-hardening bilateral carrying strength may be a promising predictor of return to work and we recommend to consider it as a prioritized test to assist in determining appropriate advice regarding return to work. However, a full evaluation of functional capacities is prolonged and time-consuming. Through thorough evaluation and work hardening training provided in the occupational rehabilitation, patients’ physical capacity can be understood and improved. There were no statistically significant differences observed in the other seven subtests.

After adjustment for basic demographic information and pre-accident physical functional elements of work, the odds of successful return to work increased (adjusted OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.04–1.54, p = 0.02) for every additional kilogram in the pre-training bilateral carrying strength. The unadjusted model showed that for every additional kilogram in bilateral carrying strength before work hardening training, the odds of successful return to work increased (crude odds ratio = 1.12, 95% confidence interval = 1.01–1.24, p = 0.027). Eight subtests of strength were included in the physical capacity evaluation, i.e., carrying, lifting to several levels, power grip, and lateral pinch, to explore the association between the strength tests and return to work. A structured questionnaire was employed for pre- and post-training assessment, including basic information, information of the occupational accident, status of the laborer at the opening of the injury case, physical requirement for the job, and physical capacity. Methodsĭata were collected of 84 patients receiving government-subsidized occupational rehabilitation between September 2016 and December 2018.

This study aimed to identify whether any of the functional capacity evaluation (FCE) strength subtests predicted successful return to work. Occupational rehabilitation helps improve the ability of patients with occupational accidents and suggests appropriate jobs to avoid second injuries. Occupational accidents may lead laborers to lose their working capacities, affecting their physical and mental health.

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