Case Study - Whiplash and psychological injury
Background
45 year old male. RTA in November 2005. Soft tissue whiplash injury to neck and back. Prior to accident had worked as a labourer and heavy plant driver.
Challenges
- Still suffering pain and stiffness in neck and back
- Has developed symptoms of depression and anxiety, with reduced self confidence and increased reluctance to leave home.
- Doesn’t think he can return to manual work. Loss of contact with employer and uncertainty about his future work
Rehab Solutions’ involvement
- Liaison with treating consultant – to follow up recovery progress, treatment plan and prognosis
- Explored provision for local pain management programme and arranged referral via GP. The programme is multidisciplinary so able to access cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to tackle psychological difficulties
- Coordinated private physiotherapy assessment and treatment to address symptoms of neck and back pain/stiffness
- Organised link up with physio and local personal trainer to agree gym-based programme, to help both physical and psychological wellbeing
- Vocational rehabilitation case manager liaised with local Jobcentre Plus services and Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) to help claimant explore return-to-work options and local employment openings/schemes.
- Vocational rehabilitation case manager assessed work skills, job capabilities and liaised with former employer
- Weekly telephone contact with claimant to monitor rehab progress and offer encouragement and support as necessary
Results
After a 6-month period of medical treatment and rehabilitation, including pain management input and an exercise programme, this gentlemen had regained sufficient function and confidence to be able to enter negotiations for return to work with his former employer. He was taken on for some part-time plant driving duties under the Permitted Work scheme, whilst remaining on Incapacity Benefit and is making good progress. He plans to increase his hours to full time in the next couple of months.