Workers Comp’ Physical Therapy Granite City, IL

Workers Comp’ Physical Therapy Granite City, IL

What Workers’ Comp PT Typically Covers: Common Conditions Treated in Granite City, IL

In Granite City, IL, Workers Comp Physical Therapy is designed to help injured workers regain mobility, build strength, and prepare to return to their job duties with confidence. 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.

Suffering an injury at work can be overwhelming. 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. Our expert team in Granite City, IL works hand-in-hand with your doctor and case manager to ensure your treatment is approved, covered, and tailored to your recovery goals.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

  • What Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy Is
    Get a clear explanation of how PT fits into the workers’ comp process and promotes a safe return to work.
  • How the Process Works at Axes PT
    We’ll walk you through each phase of therapy, from intake to final clearance.
  • Insurance & Coverage Basics
    Understand how workers’ comp insurance works, what you need for approval, and how we help you navigate it.
  • The Benefits of Early, Specialized Care
    See how early intervention and custom care can speed recovery and reduce time off work.
  • 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. This form of therapy focuses on rebuilding your physical capabilities so you can confidently resume work and daily responsibilities.

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. We customize every treatment based on your role, your condition, and what you want to achieve. Whether you’re a Granite City, IL nurse, mechanic, delivery driver, or office worker, we create a plan that helps you move forward—literally.

How It Works at Axes PT in Granite City, IL

Workers’ comp physical therapy at Axes is a complete, guided rehab journey—not just stretches and strength training.

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. That evaluation guides a rehab plan focused on restoring your function and helping you heal.

Haven’t seen a doctor yet? We offer free injury screenings at any of our Granite City, IL clinics.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

After your initial assessment, our Granite City, IL team will create a rehab plan personalized to your injury and job demands.

  • Therapeutic exercises to rebuild strength and endurance
  • Manual therapy used to relieve discomfort and increase joint mobility
  • Functional training to help you safely return to your job tasks
  • Therapeutic techniques such as heat, ice, stim, dry needling, soft tissue work, or Kinesio Taping® to support your recovery
  • Advanced Work Rehabilitation to mimic real work scenarios and build confidence before returning to labor-intensive roles

3. Consistent Communication

To keep your recovery on track, we work closely with your Granite City, 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

We evaluate your improvement regularly to keep your rehab plan aligned with your goals. 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 in Granite City, IL

In most cases, physical therapy is covered under workers’ compensation if your Granite City, IL doctor recommends it and it’s connected to a work 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?

  1. See a Doctor – You’ll need a referral from a doctor to begin therapy under workers’ comp.
  2. Get Preauthorization – The next step is getting your care plan authorized through workers’ comp.
  3. Schedule Quickly – As soon as you’re cleared, we’ll book your first session—typically within 48 hours.

We’ll work directly with your case manager or adjuster to handle the paperwork so you can focus on healing. If you’re confused about your coverage, reach out. We’ll walk you through the steps while respecting legal boundaries.

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

When it’s unclear whether you can safely resume your job, Axes provides Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) to assess your readiness. These detailed assessments measure your ability to safely perform job tasks and provide objective data for return-to-work or legal decisions.

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 Granite City, IL

At Axes Physical Therapy, we bring together timely care, proven methods, and personal support to help you recover faster and safer.

Faster Appointments

Delays in care can slow down healing, so we make sure you’re seen fast at one of our Greater St. Louis clinics.

Therapists Who Understand Work Injuries

The Granite City, IL Axes team brings expertise in occupational rehab, injury prevention, hand therapy, and sports therapy for job-related injuries. We understand what it takes to get you back to work, and we tailor your plan accordingly.

Focused on Function, Not Just Symptoms

Our goal isn’t just pain relief—it’s restoring your ability to handle real-world work tasks. This might include tasks like climbing, bending, carrying, or precision movements depending on your job.

You’re in the Driver’s Seat

Axes is a PT-owned practice, so you’ll receive care focused on results—not numbers. 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?

Coverage starts with a doctor’s referral and approval from your employer’s workers’ comp insurance provider.
After the referral, your case manager or insurance adjuster must approve the treatment plan. Our team takes care of the paperwork and communication so you can focus on healing.


What types of injuries qualify for workers’ comp physical therapy?

Physical therapy is typically covered for most workplace injuries that impact function, strength, or mobility.
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?

It depends on your employer’s workers’ comp policy and your state’s rules.
Missouri employers may have a preferred provider list, but in many cases, you can request care from Axes. Speak with your case manager or adjuster to confirm.


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?

A lawyer isn’t necessary to begin PT, but one may be useful if there’s a dispute or delay in your claim.
While we don’t provide legal advice, we ensure your medical records and documentation are organized and ready to support your claim.

Get Workers’ Comp Rehab in Granite City, 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. Our team at Axes is committed to making recovery easier with clear steps and compassionate care.

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.

Let’s take the next step in your recovery—together.

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.