Making changes to the way you work

The most common changes made to help patients return to work after joint replacement are:

1. Reducing the number of hours you work for the first few weeks.
2. Altering your pattern of work: this can include altering shift patterns, avoiding specific work tasks (e.g., avoiding specific tasks that put excess stress and strain on your new joint), and reducing the pace at which you work (less productivity expected for a period of time as you ease yourself back into work).
3. Alterations to your workstation: this includes making changes to the layout of your work environment or adjusting or changing the equipment you use.
4. Undergoing additional training: to learn new ways of working.
5. Improving accessibility and mobility: this includes making changes to access around the workplace allowing you to use sticks or crutches and allowing you to temporarily park nearer to your place of work.
6. Colleague and line manager support: the employer identifies someone to help and support you as you transition back to work after surgery. Colleagues may be able to cover your duties so you can attend physiotherapy sessions or clinic appointments.

Remember:

• 40% of people returning to work after joint replacement do reduced hours to start with
• 10% of people return doing altered duties
• 15% of people had changes made to the workplace to help their return to work
• 35% made changes to their pattern of work