FAQs Archive

Q: Do I Need a Referral to See a Physical Therapist for a Workers' Compensation Claim?

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.

Q: How long will my workers comp physical therapy last?

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.

Q: Will I receive a settlement for my workplace injury, and what factors determine the amount?

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.

Q: Can I start physical therapy while my workers comp claim is being processed?

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.

Q: What are common work injuries that require physical therapy?

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.

Q: What should I do if I get hurt at work?

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.

Q: What injuries can physical therapy treat after a car accident?

Car accidents often result in musculoskeletal injuries that can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility . Some of the most common conditions we treat include: Whiplash & Neck Pain: Rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck can cause severe stiffness, headaches, and nerve irritation. Back & Spine Injuries: Sudden impact can lead to muscle strains, herniated discs, or spinal misalignment. Concussions & Dizziness: Head trauma can result in balance issues, cognitive changes, and headaches that benefit from specialized therapy. Shoulder & Arm Pain: Seatbelt impact or bracing for a crash can lead to rotator cuff strains or joint dysfunction. Hip, Knee & Joint Pain: Sudden forces can cause ligament injuries, meniscus tears, or joint inflammation. Muscle Stiffness & Weakness: Restricted movement post-accident can lead to muscle imbalances and decreased strength. Our therapists use manual therapy, targeted exercises, and movement retraining to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent long-term complications. Create your patient account to get started today.

Q: Do I need a doctor’s referral to start physical therapy?

No referral is required to begin physical therapy with MovementX. In most states, direct access laws allow patients to start PT without needing a physician’s prescription, which means you can schedule an appointment immediately after your accident . We’ll also coordinate with your doctor or specialist if additional imaging or medical intervention is needed.