Workers Comp’ Physical Therapy Collinsville, IL

Workers Comp’ Physical Therapy Collinsville, IL

Work-Related Injuries and Conditions Typically Covered by Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy in Collinsville, IL

Workers Comp Physical Therapy supports injured employees in Collinsville, IL by restoring their strength, range of motion, and confidence for a safe return to work. This therapy uses custom rehabilitation strategies—like physical exercises, manual techniques, and task-based training—to get you back to work safely.

Work injuries can be both painful and stressful. You might be unsure about your recovery timeline, whether your physical therapy is covered, or when you’ll be able to return to your job. At Axes Physical Therapy, we guide you with custom, science-based physical therapy designed for injured workers. From start to finish, our therapists in Collinsville, IL coordinate your care plan with your medical team and case manager, so you can focus on healing and getting back to what matters.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

  • What Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy Is
    Learn how workers’ comp physical therapy helps you heal after a job-related injury.
  • How the Process Works at Axes PT
    We’ll walk you through each phase of therapy, from intake to final clearance.
  • Insurance & Coverage Basics
    Learn what documents are needed and how we streamline the approval process.
  • The Benefits of Early, Specialized Care
    Discover why starting therapy sooner leads to better results—and how our specialists focus your rehab on job-specific goals.
  • Answers to Common Questions
    Answers to the most frequent questions we hear about workers’ comp PT.
  • What to Do Next
    We’ll show you exactly how to take the first 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. Its purpose is to help you regain strength, mobility, and functional ability, allowing for a safe transition back to your job and everyday routine.

Physical therapy is a proven way to restore mobility and function if you’ve experienced pain, stiffness, or limited movement due to a workplace injury. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. We customize every treatment based on your role, your condition, and what you want to achieve. From healthcare professionals to warehouse workers in Collinsville, IL, our team designs therapy that works for your body and your job.

How It Works at Axes PT in Collinsville, IL

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

Every recovery starts with a personalized assessment to understand your condition and your role. Our team evaluates how your injury affects your ability to work and move comfortably. From there, we build a care plan that reflects your goals and what your body needs to recover.

Not sure if you need therapy? Visit any Axes location for a no-cost injury screening to get started.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

With your assessment complete, your Collinsville, IL provider will build a treatment strategy that matches your recovery needs and job requirements.

  • Targeted exercises to restore muscle function and stamina
  • Manual therapy used to relieve discomfort and increase joint mobility
  • Task-specific training to prepare you for safe job re-entry
  • Therapeutic techniques such as heat, ice, stim, dry needling, soft tissue work, or Kinesio Taping® to support your recovery
  • Advanced Work Rehabilitation programs to simulate real job tasks and ensure safe return-to-duty readiness for physically demanding roles

3. Consistent Communication

To keep your recovery on track, we work closely with your Collinsville, IL medical provider, case manager, and employer when appropriate. We’ll walk you through what’s required for coverage and make sure the necessary paperwork is in place.

4. Progress Tracking & Discharge

As you improve, we’ll reassess your status regularly to ensure you’re on track. When you’re ready, we’ll support your return to work and offer injury prevention tools to keep you safe.

Coverage & Eligibility for Workers’ Comp PT in Collinsville, IL

Workers’ comp often covers physical therapy, provided it’s prescribed by your Collinsville, IL physician and directly tied to your workplace injury. Axes PT is here to guide you through every part of the approval and treatment process.

How Do I Get Approved?

  1. See a Doctor – Most workers’ comp PT starts with a referral from your physician or treating provider.
  2. Get Preauthorization – Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance must approve the treatment plan.
  3. Schedule Quickly – After approval, we’ll get you on the schedule right away—usually within a day or two.

We’ll work directly with your case manager or adjuster to handle the paperwork so you can focus on healing. Not sure if you qualify? Contact us, and we’ll explain your options clearly—without offering legal guidance.

What Happens If You’re Not Cleared for Full Duty?

If additional verification is needed before going back to work, we offer FCEs to evaluate your capabilities. They assess your strength, mobility, and job-task capacity to inform return-to-work decisions or legal claims.

While we help coordinate care with doctors and insurers, Axes PT does not offer legal advice—please consult a licensed attorney with any legal questions.

Benefits of Choosing Axes PT for Workers’ Comp Rehabilitation in Collinsville, IL

Expertise, empathy, and early intervention—those are the qualities that set Axes PT apart when it comes to workers’ comp rehab in Collinsville, IL.

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 Collinsville, IL physical therapy 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

We don’t just address discomfort—we prepare you to safely perform your job’s physical requirements. 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. Expect custom care, honest conversations, and a process that works for you—not the system.

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.
After the referral, your case manager or insurance adjuster must approve the treatment plan. 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.
Injuries like back strains, whiplash, joint sprains, tendonitis, post-surgical care, and repetitive stress injuries are commonly treated. We tailor rehab to your job-specific demands.


Do I need to choose a clinic from a list?

Clinic choice often depends on your employer’s policy and the rules set by your state’s workers’ compensation system.
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.
Recovery can take anywhere from several sessions to a few months—your therapist will monitor your progress and adapt your plan accordingly.


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.
Our role is to provide medical care—not legal advice—but we collaborate closely with your providers to make sure everything is well-documented.

Get Workers’ Comp Rehab in Collinsville, IL 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. Our team will confirm your insurance, collaborate with your physician, and help you start therapy right away.

We’re here to help you move forward, one step at a time.

Services Offered

Services Offered
  • Physical Therapy
    • Pre/Post Surgical Rehabilitation
    • Acute Injury Management
    • Chronic Injury Management
  • Work Conditioning/Hardening
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations
  • Certified Hand Therapy (NEWLY ADDED)
  • Sports Physical Therapy
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Geriatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTYM)
  • Spine Specialty – Manual Therapy Certified
  • Free Injury Screenings
  • Kinesio Taping®
  • Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

Our Team

Sara Crain
PT, CEAS, Astym Cert.
Lauren Cavanaugh
Front Office Supervisor
Amanda Long
DPT, CMPT, ATC
Stephen Brunjes
OTR/L, CEAS
Brian Wahlig
Front Office
Sarah Schroeder
MOTR/L, CHT, Astym Cert
Daria Klein
PT, DPT, CMPT
Bill Franzen
Partner, PT, MHSPT
Kinsey Jackson
Front Office
Cassandra Wadlow
Front Office
Mary McKinney
Front Office
Brian Little
Front Office Supervisor
Zac Schniers
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Natasha Burtchett
Front Office Supervisor
Antoinette Ghoston
Front Office
Brad Tiehes
PT, DPT, CMPT
Ashley Kraus
Front Office
Helen Ziegler
Front Office
Addie Kersting
Front Office Supervisor
Dena Rose
PT, CMPT, CHT
Katee Strunk
Front Office Team Lead
Mark Smith
PT, DPT, CMPT
Kaila Mikesch
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Ali Bauer
PT, CMPT
Brandi Arndt
PT, DPT, CMPT
Julie Freiner
OTR/L, CHT
Eric Meyer
Assistant Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Anthony Meyer
PT, DPT, CMPT
Haley Finnegan
OTR/L, CHT
Brittany Stapp
Front Office
Hattie Kaimann
Front Office
Mitchell Hammack
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Farren Holman
Assistant Clinic Director, PT, DPT, Astym Cert.
Jodi Bielicke
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, ASTYM Cert.
Sara Dowil
OTR/L, CHT
Mike Faris
Clinic Director, PT, CMPT
Emily Helton
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Mandy Carter
MSPT, CMPT, ATC, CWC
Matt Williams
MS, OTR/L, ATC/L, CHT
Ray Bauer
Clinic Director, MSPT, CMPT
Brett Shelton
PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, CSMT
Candace Cunningham
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Jeff Hunter
Clinic Director, PT, Cert. MDT, MBA
Scott Gallant
PT, FAAOMPT, BDN
Derrick Wolk
Partner, Clinic Director, MPT, CMPT
Greg Nicholas
Clinic Director, MPT, CMPT
John Teepe
Partner, MPT
Ernie Goddard
Partner, PT
John Ruesler
Clinic Director, DPT, CMPT, Astym Cert.
Jennifer Szydlowski
Clinic Director, PT, CMPT
Stacey Collins
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Brian Freund
Partner, DPT, CMPT, TPS, MBA
Joe Schmersahl
Clinic Director, PT, MTC, CMTPT
Bradley Webb
Clinic Director, PT
Kelly Basler
Front Office
Daniel Scribner
PT, DPT, ATC
Jayne Scanlan
DPT, COMT, CMTPT, FAAOMPT
Sharon Titter
Clinic Director, MPT
Natalie Carter
PT, DPT, Astym. Cert.
Michelle Schrage
Front Office
Megan Phillips
Front Office
TJ Jung
PT, DPT
Kaysie Cope
Front Office
Christine Lucke
MPT, COMT.
Lauren Huckstep
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CSCS, Astym Cert.
Mary Headrick
Front Office Associate
Megan Leaver
OTD, OTR/L
Lauren Vaughn
PT, DPT, CMPT, Astym Cert.
Jon Arconati
PT, DPT, CMPT
Emma Witte
PTA, ASTYM Cert.
Stephanie Heubi
Front Office
Hannah Drake
DPT, CMPT, ATC, LAT
Kimberly Helm
Front Office Supervisor
Carly Donahue
PT, DPT, CMPT
JP Thompson
PT, DPT, Astym Cert.
Marion Shaw
Front Office Supervisor
Kelly Barnes
Physical Therapist
Lisa Bell
Front Office
Shelby Ellis
Front Office
Erin Bauer
PT, DPT
Kelly Thornton
Clinic Director, PT, DPT
Mandy Wilmes
PT, DPT, COMT
Grace Gualtieri
Physical Therapist
Lorinda Gaines
Front Office
Jeff Cowdry
OTR/L, CHT
Shannon Blum
PTA, ATC
Chris Casner
PT, Clinic Director
Jamie Baumer
PT, DPT, CMPT
Christine Rufkahr
PT, COMT, CSMT
Ashley Brown
Front Office
Tanya Stanek
Front Office
Bryan Chac
PT, DPT
David Grant
MPT, COMT, FAAOMPT
Megan Henderson
OTR/L, CHT
Jennifer Chura
Front Office
Brad Morr
PT, DPT
Emma Hanger
PT, DPT, LAT, ATC
Camri Pratt
MOT, OTR/L
Becky Reininger
Front Office
Danielle Nichols
Front Office
Anthony Pope
PT, DPT, CMPT
Stacey Cronovich
Front Office
Sabrina Schieffer
Front Office
Shelby Reynolds
Front Office
Angie Burkhead
Front Office
Dawn Szerszen
Front Office
Dari Clarke
Front Office

Locations

Begin Your Recovery Today

Injuries and pain shouldn’t keep you from moving and doing the things you love.