Workers Comp Physical Therapy helps injured workers in Greater St. Louis recover strength, mobility, and confidence so they can return to work safely and comfortably. It involves personalized, goal-driven rehab plans that may include therapeutic exercises, hands-on treatments, and job-specific training to help you meet the physical demands of your role.
Getting hurt on the job is scary. You’re likely wondering how long your recovery will take, whether your treatment is covered, or how soon you can get back to work. At Axes Physical Therapy, we’re here to take that weight off your shoulders with personalized, scientifically-backed physical therapy. Our team will guide you through every step of the rehab process, working closely with your physician and case manager to make sure your care is covered and focused on what matters most: your health and return to function.
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What You’ll Learn on This Page
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What Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy Is
Understand the purpose of PT in the workers’ compensation system and how it supports your recovery. -
How the Process Works at Axes PT
From initial evaluation to treatment plan and discharge—what to expect each step of the way. -
Insurance & Coverage Basics
How workers’ comp coverage works, what’s typically required for approval, and how we help streamline the process. -
The Benefits of Early, Specialized Care
Why treating injuries sooner improves outcomes—and how our certified therapists tailor care to your job demands. -
Answers to Common Questions
FAQs about getting started, referrals, injury types, timelines, and whether you need legal help. -
What to Do Next
Clear instructions to help you schedule your first appointment and take the next step toward recovery.
What Is Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy?
Workers’ comp physical therapy is a specialized type of rehabilitation designed to help employees recover after being injured on the job. The goal is to restore your strength, mobility, and ability to perform work-related tasks—so you can safely return to work and daily life.
If you’re dealing with pain, stiffness, or loss of function from a work-related injury, physical therapy can help you heal and rebuild confidence in your mobility and function. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific job duties, injury type, and recovery goals. Whether you’re a nurse, mechanic, delivery driver, or office worker, we create a plan that helps you move forward—literally.
How It Works at Axes PT in Greater St. Louis
At Axes, workers’ comp PT is more than just exercise—it’s a full, hands-on rehabilitation experience focused on getting you back to work safely and efficiently.
1. Personalized Evaluation
Your journey starts with a thorough assessment. We look at your injury, your job demands, and your current mobility, strength, and pain levels. From there, we build a care plan that reflects your goals and what your body needs to recover.
If you’ve yet to be seen by a physician, you can come to any of our locations for a free injury screening.
2. Customized Treatment Plan
Based on your evaluation, your therapist will develop a targeted plan that may include:
- Therapeutic exercises to rebuild strength and endurance
- Manual therapy to reduce pain and restore motion
- Functional training to help you safely return to your job tasks
- Modalities like heat, ice, electrical stimulation, dry needling, soft tissue mobilization, or Kinesio Taping® (when appropriate)
- Advanced Work Rehabilitation programs to simulate real job tasks and ensure safe return-to-duty readiness for physically demanding roles
3. Consistent Communication
We stay in contact with your physician, case manager, and—when allowed—your employer, to make sure everyone is aligned on your progress. We’ll also help you understand what’s covered and what documentation is needed for approval.
4. Progress Tracking & Discharge
As you improve, we’ll reassess your status regularly to ensure you’re on track. Once you’ve met your goals, we’ll help you transition back to work safely and confidently—with strategies to reduce the risk of reinjury.
Coverage & Eligibility for Workers’ Comp PT
Yes, workers’ comp usually covers physical therapy—if it’s prescribed by your doctor and related to your job injury. At Axes PT, we’re experienced in navigating this process and can help you every step of the way.
How Do I Get Approved?
- See a Doctor – Most workers’ comp PT starts with a referral from your physician or treating provider.
- Get Preauthorization – Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance must approve the treatment plan.
- Schedule Quickly – Once authorized, you can schedule your therapy—often within 24–48 hours at Axes.
We’ll work directly with your case manager or adjuster to handle the paperwork so you can focus on healing. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, give us a call—we’ll help you understand your options without offering legal advice.
What Happens If You’re Not Cleared for Full Duty?
If there’s uncertainty about your ability to return to work—or you’re required to prove functional readiness—Axes offers Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs). These detailed assessments measure your ability to safely perform job tasks and provide objective data for return-to-work or legal decisions.
Axes Physical Therapy does not provide legal advice. We collaborate with your medical team and insurance provider to ensure proper care—but any legal concerns should be directed to a qualified attorney.
Benefits of Choosing Axes PT for Workers’ Comp Rehabilitation
When recovering from a workplace injury, timing, experience, and compassion matter. At Axes PT, we combine all three.
Faster Appointments
We know delays can set back your recovery—so we offer quick access to care across our Greater St. Louis locations.
Therapists Who Understand Work Injuries
Our team includes specialists in occupational rehab, ergonomic injury prevention, hand therapy, and sports-related workplace injuries. We understand what it takes to get you back to work, and we tailor your plan accordingly.
Focused on Function, Not Just Symptoms
Beyond treating pain, we help you return to specific physical tasks safely. That could mean lifting, standing, climbing stairs, or fine motor skills.
You’re in the Driver’s Seat
Axes is a PT-owned practice, which means our clinicians prioritize patient outcomes over quotas. You’ll get personalized attention, clear communication, and support that revolves around your needs—not paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy
How do I get my physical therapy covered by workers’ comp?
You’ll need a referral from your doctor and approval from your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.
Once your physician recommends PT, your case manager or adjuster must authorize the sessions. Axes PT works directly with them to coordinate care, so you don’t have to manage the back-and-forth.
What types of injuries qualify for workers’ comp physical therapy?
Most work-related injuries involving pain, mobility loss, or reduced function are eligible for PT.
This includes back and neck injuries, sprains, strains, tendonitis, post-surgical recovery, and repetitive use injuries. We tailor rehab to your job-specific demands.
Do I need to choose a clinic from a list?
It depends on your employer’s workers’ comp policy and your state’s rules.
In Missouri, your employer or insurer may direct your care to certain providers. That said, many patients are able to request care at a trusted clinic like Axes—just ask your adjuster or contact us for help.
How long will my workers’ comp physical therapy last?
The length of treatment depends on your injury, job duties, and how your body responds to rehab.
Some people recover in a few weeks; others need a few months. Your therapist will track your progress closely and adjust your plan as needed to ensure a safe, effective return to work.
Do I need a lawyer to start PT under workers’ comp?
No, a lawyer isn’t required to begin treatment—but legal advice can help if your claim is denied or delayed.
Axes PT cannot offer legal guidance, but we work with your care team to ensure all documentation and clinical notes are clear, timely, and support your case if needed.
Get Workers’ Comp Rehab in St. Louis Today
If you’ve been injured at work, getting timely, expert physical therapy can make all the difference in your recovery—and your return to work. At Axes Physical Therapy, we make that process as smooth as possible.
Call the location nearest you to speak with our team about workers’ comp physical therapy, or request your appointment online in just a few clicks. We’ll verify your coverage, coordinate with your doctor, and get you started on the road to recovery—fast.
We’re here to help you move forward, one step at a time.