Firefighting places intense physiological strain on the firefighter and is one of the most dangerous occupations in the U.S., with injury rates 7 times higher than the general population. In order to perform the duties associated with the occupation of firefighting, a firefighter must possess a combination of technical skill competencies and physical fitness attributes. As such, when either treating a current injury, or attempting to decrease the risk of future injuries, physical therapists must ensure that these tactical athletes can properly safely perform the elements associated with this occupation. Therefore, this session will describe the epidemiology of common injuries that occur within the firefighter population and introduce attendees to the essential job tasks of a firefighter. Particular emphasis will be placed on the scientific literature, reports and standards from the National Fire Protection Association, and the elements of the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). This session will also provide an example of a novel physical therapy program embedded within a large urban U.S. fire department and describe how these job tasks elements are considered during the return-to-work progression among these firefighters. Collectively, attendees will gain practical insight regarding the prevention and treatment of injury firefighters across their careers.
