Vol. 1, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Outcome evaluation of customized rehabilitation plans for workers with repetitive strain injuries in high-demand industries

Author(s):

Seung-Ho Kim

Abstract:

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are a common occupational hazard. are prevalent among workers in high-demand industries, including manufacturing, electronics, and logistics, where repetitive tasks and poor ergonomic practices lead to significant musculoskeletal discomfort, disability, and lost productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of customized rehabilitation plans for workers with RSIs, assessing the effectiveness of individualized physiotherapy, ergonomic modifications, and task-specific retraining. A total of 60 workers diagnosed with RSIs participated in the study, receiving a six-week intervention that included corrective physiotherapy exercises, workstation adjustments, and graded return-to-work strategies. Pain intensity, functional ability, and return-to-work success were assessed before and after the intervention. The results indicated a significant reduction in pain intensity (mean difference = 4.6 on the Visual Analogue Scale, p < 0.001) and a marked improvement in functional scores (mean difference = 33.0, p < 0.001). Furthermore, 85% of participants successfully returned to work, demonstrating the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program in promoting recovery and reintegration. Post-intervention ergonomic assessments showed improved workstation compliance and reduced risk factors for further injury. These findings highlight the importance of individualized rehabilitation strategies in treating RSIs, as customized interventions tailored to the specific demands of each worker’s job and ergonomic profile resulted in superior outcomes compared to generic rehabilitation programs. This study supports the implementation of comprehensive, worker-centered rehabilitation programs that integrate physiotherapy, ergonomic optimization, and task-specific modifications as effective strategies for managing RSIs and enhancing workplace productivity.

Pages: 19-23  |  25 Views  11 Downloads

How to cite this article:
Seung-Ho Kim. Outcome evaluation of customized rehabilitation plans for workers with repetitive strain injuries in high-demand industries. J. Physiother. Occup. Rehabil. 2025;1(1):19-23.