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Apr 26, 2004 9:13 AM

Getting employees back to work as soon as possible after an injury or illness may be the best thing for them, according to Richard Sagall, an occupational medicine physician. He made the remarks at a meeting of the National Tank Truck Carriers Safety Council April 14-15 in Nashville TN.

He pointed out that employees such as drivers don't necessarily have to return to driving, but could be placed in other jobs until ready to be on the road again.

He used as a model the treatment of professional athletes who are treated immediately and moved on to early mobilization. "Staying at home is counter-productive," the doctor said. He pointed out that physical therapy, although it may be time-consuming, produces good results, and usually quickly.

The number of tests required also can be controversial, but he said that tests results may change the treatment plan--or they may reassure the patient, which can enhance recovery.