What is meant by “work hardening” programs in workers' compensation?

"Work hardening" programs are specifically designed to assist injured workers in regaining their physical strength and work capabilities after an injury. These programs take a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation, focusing not only on the physical aspects of recovery but also on helping workers transition back into their specific job duties.

The structure of work hardening programs often includes practical exercises that simulate the tasks an employee would perform on the job to address physical limitations and restore functional capacity. This targeted rehabilitation assists employees in developing the endurance and strength necessary to perform their work safely and effectively, which is crucial for their return to the workplace.

Given the focus of "work hardening" on the rehabilitation and performance aspects of returning to work, other options do not align with its primary purpose. Programs that improve general fitness, train in new skills, or prepare for retirement do not specifically address the recovery and reintegration into the original job roles that are the focus of work hardening programs.