Stretching programs are job-specific and designed for employees to perform before work and during the shift to reduce muscle strain and fatigue to prevent injuries. Custom exercise routines are developed for each job in the facility. The goal of the program is to contribute to the prevention of injuries.

Licensed physical therapists and registered occupational therapists conduct a job site visit to assess physical job demands. From this observation, the therapist develops a stretching routine to address specific muscle groups used to perform jobs viewed. A stretching routine is then developed for each job viewed. The therapist typically trains a group of employees who will be designated as the stretch break leaders. 

The therapist may also conduct one or two training sessions with all of the employees. The employer will designate a time during the work day that stretch breaks will occur, usually at the beginning of the shift.

Services Provided

The following services are provided by Worker Rehabilitation at North Hills Health Center in Menomonee Falls.

  • Safety committee consultation
  • Job-site ergonomics consultation
  • Return-to-Work rehabilitation programs
  • Functional capacity evaluation
  • ADA consultation
  • Job-specific screening
  • Employer needs assessment

These services are provided at the work site. On-site training is usually scheduled for 1-1/2 hours to train leaders and one hour per group to train employees. Optimal group size is 25 employees.

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