If you’re injured at work, taking immediate action is crucial. First, report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, as delays could impact your ability to file a workers’ compensation claim. Next, seek medical attention to evaluate the severity of your injury and begin appropriate treatment. Your employer or their insurance provider should guide you through the workers’ comp claims process, which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages while you recover.

Research consistently shows that starting physical therapy early leads to better recovery outcomes. If your physician does not initially recommend physical therapy, you may need to advocate for yourself to ensure you receive the care necessary to restore function and prevent long-term complications.

Workplace injuries vary depending on your job, but some of the most common work injuries include muscle strains, sprains, fractures, and injuries caused by machinery. Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and SLAP tears, are also common, especially for those in physically demanding jobs. If your injury affects your mobility or function, physical therapy can be a crucial part of your recovery process.

Yes, you can usually begin treatment while your workers compensation claim is being reviewed, but it depends on your employer’s insurance policy. Some insurance providers require approval before covering medical treatments like physical therapy. If your claim is delayed, you may need to speak with your claims adjuster or legal representative to ensure you receive timely care. In some cases, employers may request an IME (Independent Medical Examination) for workers comp to verify the necessity of your treatment.

Fill out our Insurance Verification Form for Workers Compensation Claims and our billing team will work directly with your employer and adjustor to make sure your claim is covered.

Many workplace injuries result in workers’ compensation settlements, particularly if they require surgery, long-term treatment, or result in permanent impairment. The settlement amount depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, medical costs, lost wages, and whether you can return to work at full capacity. Common injuries that lead to settlements include rotator cuff tears, shoulder injuries, neck fusions, knee surgeries, and repetitive motion conditions like carpal tunnel or arthritis.

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in both your recovery and your settlement value. Consistently attending physical therapy provides documented evidence of your injury’s impact, your treatment progress, and any ongoing limitations. This medical documentation can strengthen your case for a higher settlement, as it demonstrates the extent of your rehabilitation needs and whether you may require long-term care. If you believe your injury warrants a settlement, it’s important to follow through with prescribed therapy and consider consulting a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure you receive fair compensation.

The length of your physical therapy will depend on your injury, its severity, and your progress in recovery. Some conditions, like tendonitis or mild sprains, may only require a few weeks of therapy, while more serious injuries, such as SLAP tears, cervical radiculopathy, or post-surgical rehabilitation, could take months. Your physical therapist will assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. The goal of therapy is to restore strength, mobility, and function so you can return to work safely.

Whether you need a referral to start physical therapy for a workers’ compensation claim depends on the state you’re in and your employer’s insurance policy. Some states allow direct access to physical therapy, meaning you can see a physical therapist without a physician’s referral. However, many workers’ comp insurance plans require a referral from an approved provider—such as a primary care physician or specialist—before they will cover treatment.

Even if a referral is not required, having one can help strengthen your claim by ensuring your treatment is well-documented and medically justified. If your physician does not initially recommend physical therapy, you may need to advocate for yourself and request a referral, as early intervention has been shown to improve recovery outcomes. Always check with your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider to understand your coverage and referral requirements.

Our team is happy to coordinate for you to determine whether a referral and prior authorization is needed to get started. Contact us today at (202) 681-1474 or info@movement-x.com.