Sprains Versus Strains
Written on September 30, 2011 at 12:35 pm, by Dr. Jason Swain
While people tend to use the terms ‘sprain’ and ‘strain’ interchangeably, this is not an accurate use of the words. Keeping in mind that a proper descriptive diagnosis should include the tissue of concern and the type of injury sustained by that tissue, use of the words ‘sprain’ and ‘strain’ mean very different things.
Fibromyalgia
Written on September 15, 2011 at 4:08 pm, by Dr. Jason Swain
What is it?
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome comprised of multiple soft tissue tender points (soreness seems isolated to muscles and ligaments), musculoskeletal pain (not in joints like arthritis), and stiffness in multiple regions. This condition may also cause fatigue, sleep problems, depression and concentration difficulty.
Seasonal Influenza – Flu Clinics and the Importance of Immunization for Employers
Written on September 15, 2011 at 4:01 pm, by Mary Crunkleton – Director of Employer Services
The flu season is right around the corner and employers and employees alike are thinking about immunizations for their families.
Every year, an estimated 10 to 25% of Canadians may contract the flu, with children being two to three times more likely than their adult counterparts to come down with the flu virus. Studies have shown that vaccinating children against flu protects the entire family and community at large against the spread of the flu virus.
Assessing Claimants with Myofascial Pain
Written on August 31, 2011 at 2:17 pm, by Dr. Robert Fielden, Orthopaedic Consultant A.R.S.
Myofascial pain is a condition characterized by muscular pain that can be described as steady, aching, and deep. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe and lightning-like.
Typically associated with trigger points that can present themselves in the form of painful knots or lumps, the pain can cause restricted movement, sleep disturbances, and guarding, which is a natural protective response that helps to prevent further injury. Although myofascial pain is not a fatal condition, it can cause a significant reduction in quality of life and is a major cause of time lost from work.
Absence Matters – The True Cost of Absenteeism for Employers
Written on August 31, 2011 at 2:10 pm, by Mary Crunkleton – Director of Employer Services
Absenteeism is not only a source of concern and irritation for employers but it can also be costly. According to Statistics Canada, since 1997, absenteeism for personal reasons, such as illness or disability, and personal or family responsibilities, is on the rise. On average approximately 5.5% (484,000) of all full-time employees were absent from work for all or part of the week for personal reasons. By 2006, the rate had risen to 8.2% (896,000) of all full-time employees.
FSCO’s Recommended Changes to the Definition of Catastrophic Impairment
Written on July 5, 2011 at 11:25 am, by Warren Hamer – Director of Marketing
On the afternoon of April 28, 2011, members of The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) and the Catastrophic Impairment Expert Panel (the Panel) presented their Recommendations for Changes to the Definition of Catastrophic Impairment to stakeholders.
The project is being performed in two phases. In Phase I the Panel reviewed the current Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) definition of catastrophic impairment and made recommendations to the Superintendent of the FSCO. With the proposed changes to the definition the Panel aims to ensure that the most seriously injured traffic accident victims will receive appropriate treatment.
Proceed With Caution
Written on July 5, 2011 at 11:25 am, by Mary Crunkleton – Director of Employer Services
Returning an employee to the workplace after short and/or long-term disability.
The National Institute of Disability Management and Research (NIDMAR) estimates that 8 to 12 percent of Canada’s workforce is absent due to injury or illness, and the costs generated by disability programs is steadily on the rise. This is why actively helping your injured employee return to work as quickly as possible is so important, but in doing so one must proceed with caution.
Returning an employee to the workplace after a medical absence can present many challenges. There has to be a careful balance between your right to manage a productive workplace and your employee’s right to return to a safe work environment without fear of further injury.
The following frequently asked questions will assist you with your return to work plan: