You took some time off to heal after that workplace injury, but now it’s time to get back on the horse. Returning to work after an injury and an extended break can be tough, especially with lingering pain or reduced mobility.
But have no fear – with the right mindset and planning, you can ease back into your workflow and be productive again. In this article, a North Carolina workers comp attorney shares a few pro tips to set you up for success as you return to work post-injury.
Preparing for Your Return to Work
Meet with your doctor to determine if you’re ready to go back to work. Ask if there are any physical restrictions or limitations you need to be aware of. Get a doctor’s note detailing your work status and any accommodations you may need.
Talk to your HR department and manager about a graduated return to work plan. This may involve starting back part-time or with lighter duties before resuming your full responsibilities. A good plan will ease you back into the flow of work and account for your recovery needs.
It’s normal to feel some anxiety about going back to work after an injury. Discuss your concerns openly with your doctor, manager, and coworkers. Focus on what you need to feel comfortable and supported. Maybe that’s an adjusted workspace, extra breaks, or a buddy system with a coworker.
Having Open Communication With Your Employer
Once you’ve been cleared to return to work after an injury, it’s important to keep the lines of communication open with your employer. Schedule a meeting with your manager or HR department to discuss the details of your return, including any accommodations or changes needed to ease your transition back. Be open and honest about your current abilities and limitations.
Your employer will likely have questions about your injury and recovery process. Provide any documentation from your doctor regarding work restrictions or accommodations that may be required. Be prepared to discuss how your job duties may need to be temporarily modified.
Requesting Workplace Accommodations
Returning to work after an injury often means adjusting to physical or mental limitations. Don’t worry—your employer is required by law to provide “reasonable accommodations” to help you do your job. Tell your manager or HR department about any difficulties you’re having so you can explore options together.
Maybe you need modified equipment, flexible scheduling, or lighter duties. Don’t be afraid to ask. Get recommendations from your doctor. If your doctor has specific recommendations for how your job can be modified to accommodate your condition, provide that information to your employer.
Getting Ongoing Support During Your Transition
Staying in communication with your employer, doctor, and coworkers will help ensure a smooth transition back to work. Don’t be afraid to ask for the support you need:
- Meet regularly with your manager at first to discuss how things are going and if any adjustments need to be made. Your manager wants you to succeed and recover.
- Check-in frequently with your doctor during the first few weeks. Your doctor can monitor your progress and recommend additional accommodations if needed.
- Reach out to coworkers for help when needed. Ask a coworker to assist you with lifting heavy objects or walking long distances if that’s difficult for you currently.
- Take scheduled breaks as needed. Frequent, short breaks can help manage pain or fatigue.
- Be gentle with yourself. Healing takes time. Focus on making progress day by day and week by week. You’ll get back into the swing of things before you know it!
The most important thing is prioritizing your health and recovery. With patience, communication, and support from your employer and medical team, you’ll be back at work successfully in no time.
Reach Out to Our Firm for Guidance on Returning to Work After an Injury
Returning to work after an injury can be stressful and disorienting. Our firm has years of experience helping clients navigate this tricky process. We provide guidance every step of the way to ensure you are treated fairly upon your return.
Reach out to our firm today to schedule a free consultation with a North Carolina workers comp lawyer and learn more about how we can help. Call 919-328-2336 for assistance anytime.
