Julie DeBacker OT, MS

Julie DeBacker, OT, MS received her undergraduate degree in occupational therapy from Madison, Wisconsin, and her master’s degree from the College of St Francis, Joliet, Illinois.  Julie has extensive experience working with children and adults.  She has advanced knowledge in the treatment of both neurological and musculoskeletal conditions including chronic pain management, multiple sclerosis, stroke recovery and orthopedic hand, elbow and shoulder injuries.

Combining both her compassion for helping in the recovery of the injured worker and her managerial skills, DeBacker was responsible for creating the first work hardening program in western Illinois and the first CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) certified program in Iowa. She has presented to numerous organizations and businesses on developing light duty programs and safe handling practices.  She is experienced in job assessment, post offer worker performance testing, and return to work management.  She has been deposed as an expert witness on work related disability issues.  DeBacker has worked with many different businesses focusing on injury management:  metal press operations, trucking, auto manufacturing, cereal processing, beverage distributing, city and county services, health care, railroad, leather tanning, warehouse/distribution, and meat processing.  She is the clinic manager for one of our Tyson Foods, Inc. on-site clinics.

Julie DeBacker has a strong philosophy in her approach to aiding in the recovery of the injured worker:  “Working is a part of the identity of Americans.  When you are injured and cannot work, the loss is more than just your job. I am committed to working with employers and employees preventing injuries and assisting the injured worker in recovering their work skills.  This is a very special field where industry and health care must work together.”