Before beginning our second-line program, we conduct a comprehensive five-hour assessment of your physical condition. This thorough evaluation measures your daily functioning and ability to perform your work. It is more detailed than previous assessments with your occupational therapist and physiotherapist.

The evaluation includes several components:

• Administration of multiple questionnaires to assess your situation and the impact of pain on your daily life.

• Subjective interview with the occupational therapist and physiotherapist.

• Objective tests such as mobility and strength assessments.

In addition, endurance tests and simulations of functional or professional tasks will be conducted:

• Treadmill walking

• Standing/sitting tolerance

• Handling weights and other tools/equipment

• Strength, mobility, and flexibility tests

• Palpation and manual tests of painful areas

Tips for the evaluation:

• Wear comfortable or sporty clothing.

• Dress in a way that exposes the injury area (e.g., shorts for a knee injury; tank top for a shoulder injury - no concern for a hip injury, as we provide gowns!)

• Bring or wear sports shoes.

• Bring a water bottle.

• Take your pain relievers as usual before the evaluation.

• We will strive to assess your maximum physical capabilities without exacerbating your pain, so it is very important to always respect your body, pain, and limits.

Once the evaluation is complete, we will discuss the treatment plan/functional capacity development program with you.

The therapies you have undergone so far are considered first-line or conventional therapies. Once these treatments have reached their maximum effectiveness and your condition has become chronic (3 to 6 months after the injury), you may consider a second-line rehabilitation program.

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Program objectives:

• Understand and effectively manage your chronic pain to regain control of your life.

• Improve your endurance, strength, mobility, and flexibility through a personalized daily exercise program.

• Prepare for a gradual return to work upon completion of the program, with assistance from your occupational therapist.

 

Program duration:
5 hours per day, 5 days a week, for 6 weeks.

This intensity is crucial for several important reasons. It aims to reactivate your body with a healthy routine to improve sleep and nutrition. Daily exercise practice is essential for significant endurance gains and allows precise monitoring of your physical progress and effective pain management. You will also benefit from a safe environment and community support with other patients, promoting independence and pain self-management through exercises.

What does a typical day look like?

• Introduction to exercises by your healthcare team on the first day, followed by daily independent exercises.

• Opportunity for breaks during the 5 hours spent at the clinic.

• On-site meal options with access to a microwave.

• Group sessions such as relaxation, outdoor activities (weather permitting), and hydrotherapy.

Communication:

• With your healthcare team: Share your sensations and adjust exercises if needed.

• With other participants: Socialize, share experiences, and support each other.

This structured approach aims to optimize your rehabilitation journey, helping you regain functionality and quality of life through effective pain management and physical conditioning.