Back to Work, Not Back to Square One – A Physiotherapy-Led Approach to Recovery

The Challenge: When Standard Return-to-Work Isn’t Enough

In many cases, traditional workplace assessments fall short of what’s needed. A generic checklist or brief equipment review doesn’t address the complexity of an individual recovering from injury or surgery. Without expert insight, employees are often returned to a setup or workload that doesn’t support their current capacity – which can increase the risk of reinjury, delayed recovery, and stress.

Take, for example, a case we recently supported: a marketing executive was returning to work following a prolapsed disc and spinal surgery. A standard return process would have seen them back at their desk with minor adaptations – but this wouldn't have addressed their pain levels, physical limitations, or the need for ongoing rehab. Our physio-led assessment flagged the need for a graduated work schedule, supportive lumbar seating, a sit-stand desk, and light movement breaks built into their calendar.

Within four weeks, they were able to build up from two hours to a full workday, with significantly reduced pain and increased confidence. Both HR and the employee reported that the structured, empathetic approach was key to making the transition successful.

Our Solution: Physiotherapy-Led Return-to-Work Support

Our unique model bridges the gap between healthcare and workplace needs. We know that recovery doesn’t stop when someone returns to work – it often continues alongside their role. That’s why our Chartered Physiotherapists assess not just the workspace, but the individual’s physical presentation, recovery stage, and job requirements.

Here’s what’s included in our physiotherapy-led service:

• Initial Assessment (Virtual or Onsite): A detailed conversation with the employee to understand their condition, work demands, limitations, and recovery goals.

• Functional Capacity Review: Hands-on assessment (where appropriate) or guided movement screening to assess physical ability relevant to the employee’s role.

• Workstation & Task Analysis: A review of desk setup, work tasks, and any equipment that may aggravate or support recovery.

• Phased Return Planning: Clinically-informed return schedules, including hours, tasks, pacing, and movement strategies.

• Detailed Reporting: Employer-ready documents outlining findings, recommendations, and any required adjustments.
  
  

The Results: Better Outcomes for People and Performance

A physio-led approach leads to better long-term results. By recognising the nuanced needs of recovery, we help employees stay in work – not cycle in and out of absence. We’ve seen significant impact across sectors:

• Reduced Reaggravation Risk: Our clients report fewer repeat injuries and longer sustained returns.

• Improved Confidence: Employees feel reassured that someone with clinical knowledge understands their pain and potential.

• Manager Support: We equip managers with clear guidance, making it easier to provide reasonable adjustments.

One of our larger clients in the financial services sector rolled out our service for their high-risk cases and saw a 40% drop in prolonged absences due to musculoskeletal injuries. Managers felt more capable, and HR received fewer reactive issues to resolve.

Conclusion: Clinical Insight Makes All the Difference

Returning to work is not just about when – it’s about how. A physiotherapy-led approach ensures that employees are supported holistically, not just handed a desk and expected to “get on with it.”

At All Set Workplace, we believe in restoring not only productivity but dignity and wellbeing. If your team is managing complex health cases or you want to offer best-practice support for long-term recovery, our physiotherapy-led services provide the reassurance and results you’re looking for.

Let’s make returning to work a success – not a setback.