Tips on Returning to Work after a Hand Injury
Returning to work after having had trauma to your hand or after having been diagnosed with a repetitive hand injury can be a daunting task and might evoke feelings on insecurity, uncertainty and fear for both the employee and employer. Here are our top ten tips on returning to work:

1. Find out about your expected recovery
2. Communicate with your employer
When you have been injured or diagnosed with a condition, it is helpful to let your employer know what is going on and update them regularly. Employers who are educated on what your recover is likely to look like, are generally far more likely to accommodate your needs if they are able to. You may also want to inform your employer what is expected in terms of doctor and therapy follow-ups, so they know when you’ll be required to be out of the office/off the job
3. Know your rights and responsibilties
4. Manage your pain
Manage your pain well in the beginning and throughout your recovery. Your doctor can prescribe the appropriate medication and an occupational therapist can assist you with non-pharmaceutical modalities to manage your pain. Early pain control is associated with earlier return to work.
5. Do things differently
Make use of adaptations and alternative methods of performing tasks when you do return to work for the initial period if you need it. For example, if you do a lot of computer typing, a programme that transcribes your voice, might just be the thing that helps you with the transition back to work when your hand quite cannot manage 8 hours (or more) of typing
7. Allow yourself space to recover
Give yourself the necessary tender love and care. When returning to work it is important to remember that you likely still be recovering physically and emotionally from your injury. Give yourself the space, rest and self-care needed to aid your overall recovery.
8. Ask for help
9. Deal with your anxiety
9. Do hand warm-ups
10. Strengthen appropriately
Schedule an Appointment
For an integrated approach to Occupational Therapy services, contact us on the details below.
Hands, Lymphoedema & Breast Cancer
079 491 6450
hands@otzone.co.za