From Recovery to Peak Performance

Returning to Work After Injury — 3 Key Steps

Learn how to plan your return to work safely after injury with practical rehabilitation advice from Summit Osteo & Performance Ringwood.

Injury Recovery
Sports Rehab
Post-Op Care
Osteopathy Insights

About Bayley Forbes | Summit Osteo & Performance

Bayley Forbes is an osteopath and strength & conditioning coach based in Ringwood, Victoria. He founded Summit Osteo & Performance to help people bridge the gap between treatment and performance — combining hands-on care with tailored movement and strength programs to support long-term recovery and better performance.

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Returning to Work After Injury — 3 Key Steps

Recovering from a workplace injury can be challenging — both physically and mentally.
A structured plan and clear communication between you, your health provider, and your employer can make the process smoother and help you return to work safely.

At Summit Osteo & Performance in Ringwood, we support patients through WorkCover and TAC rehabilitation with individualised plans that focus on recovery, function, and confidence.

Here are three key steps to help you get back to work safely and sustainably.

1. Get a Clear Assessment and Plan

Every injury is different, so the first step is a thorough assessment to determine your current function and work demands.
Your osteopath will identify what you can safely do and where you need support to recover.

A good rehabilitation plan includes:

Clear short- and long-term goals

Pain and load management strategies

Guidelines for modified duties or reduced hours

Progressive exercises to restore movement and strength


This ensures you’re not just returning to work — you’re returning ready.

2. Work Collaboratively With Your Employer and Health Team

Successful recovery requires open communication between you, your osteopath, your doctor, and your workplace.
Your rehab provider can liaise with employers to create modified duties or a graded return plan that balances productivity and safety.

Typical examples include:

Shorter hours during the initial weeks

Avoiding heavy lifting or awkward positions

Breaking up repetitive tasks with movement breaks


This collaborative approach helps you build capacity while reducing the chance of re-injury.


3. Focus on Long-Term Rehabilitation

Returning to work isn’t the end of recovery — it’s part of it.
Maintaining your rehab routine after you’re back is essential for long-term strength and resilience.

Your osteopath may progress you to:

Work-specific strength and conditioning exercises

Mobility and postural training

Strategies to manage load and prevent flare-ups


Building these habits reduces the risk of future injuries and helps you stay active and confident at work.


When to Seek Support

If pain returns as you increase your duties, or if you’re struggling to meet work demands, book a review appointment.
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major setbacks.

Book an Appointment
or learn more on the WorkCover & TAC Rehabilitation in Ringwood page.

✅ Internal Links

Osteopathy in Ringwood

Sports Rehabilitation in Ringwood

WorkCover & TAC Rehabilitation in Ringwood


⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not replace individual medical advice.
If you’re recovering from injury or managing a WorkCover/TAC claim, please consult your healthcare professional for individual guidance.

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