Returning to woek after op, what should I be asking for,

[CornishTeaTime]

Been off work 12 weeks and am 9 weeks post 2nd op, been told if I feel up to it can gradually return to work when I feel able to but not overdo it - work from home 4 days a week all pc work.

Biggest problem is my arm and shoulder where a nerve was caught and is very painful. Ive got exercises to do at home starting this week and next week which should help so was wondering when I speak to my manager today to suggest I start a gradual return after next week. My consultant said to do what I feel is right for me.

Ive also been paid in full for these 12 weeks thankfully.

Any advice, as Ive never been off long term before.

Feeling abit anxious about returning to work as Im sure they cant keep paying me in full

Its hard to advise, but would starting with shorter days help? Say 4hrs a day then slowly building up? Can you have time in the day to get up/stretch/exercise etc? Have you had a risk assessment done?

A friend with a shoulder injury used a mouse which was angled sideways. Occupational health assessed her and provided it. I can't just attach a photo but here is a link with a photo of what I mean. https://www.consepsys.com/2020/04/28/mouse-shoulder-how-to-relieve-it/

Thanks may look at this.

Yes I was hoping to start a few hours a day then build up each week so will suggest that.

Also my laptop battery is low and more memory needed which I really cant afford, so will throw that in as Im hoping work will pay for or contribute. I might ask for my work pc at home but its so big and bulky so Ive always used my own personal laptop.

I had a shoulder op in September and also wfh at a computer.
First - ask your manager for phased return. Shorter days might be helpful or less days per week - whichever you think works best for you.
Ask for an OHS referral. Someone will call you and assess your needs - they might suggest slightly different equipment like ergonomic mouse etc or different chair etc.

You will need frequent short breaks. I've been told to have a "micro" break every 20 minutes. Make sure your manager is aware of this.
Some workplaces can offer health and wellbeing help. I work for a big company and can get some free physio. See if you can get something - you don't know until you ask! If not think about paying for private physio - believe me it's worth it!!

Not shoulder surgery but the nerve was affected by other op which I was tild may happen.

Im sure once I get into the swing of things I'll be fine but just feeling anxious.

Do you not know how long you receive full pay for? We are paid 6 months full pay then 6 months half pay. It would be worth you finding out in case you need more time off. You should be asking for an Occupational Health assessment, not a risk assessment. In fact, work should be asking you to have it done. Work will organise it for you. The OH assessment will determine how long any phased return will be, whether or not you need regular breaks etc.

I’m returning on 17th after similar time off , having a two week work when you can phased return which may be extended depending on how things go

Havent a clue it's a small business owned by a small group who dont really have much to do with us, we just crack on.

My job is pretty easy, my boss is great so will be fine with whatever I decide.

Yes this is what Im thinking too