In Hazelwood, MO, Workers Comp Physical Therapy is designed to help injured workers regain mobility, build strength, and prepare to return to their job duties with confidence. The process includes targeted rehab with customized exercises, manual therapy, and job-focused training based on your specific injury and job demands.
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, our goal is to ease that burden through individualized, evidence-based physical therapy. Our Hazelwood, MO physical and occupational therapy 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.
What You’ll Learn on This Page
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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
Explore what happens at every stage—from evaluation through treatment and your return to work. -
Insurance & Coverage Basics
Find out how coverage is approved and what’s typically required to begin therapy. -
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
Simple, actionable steps to schedule your evaluation and get started.
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.
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. Our care is based on your specific tasks at work, your injury, and your long-term goals. From healthcare professionals to warehouse workers in Hazelwood, MO, our team designs therapy that works for your body and your job.
How It Works at Axes PT in Hazelwood, MO
Workers’ comp physical therapy at Axes is a complete, guided rehab journey—not just stretches and strength training.
1. Personalized Evaluation
Every recovery starts with a personalized assessment to understand your condition and your role. This exam covers your physical limitations, job-related tasks, and areas of discomfort. 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 Hazelwood, MO occupational therapist will develop a targeted plan that may include:
- Therapeutic exercises to rebuild strength and endurance
- Manual therapy that eases pain and improves range of motion
- Work-simulation activities designed to match your job duties
- Therapeutic techniques such as heat, ice, stim, dry needling, soft tissue work, or Kinesio Taping® to support your recovery
- Advanced Work Rehabilitation sessions designed to replicate on-the-job demands and verify you’re ready for full duty
3. Consistent Communication
To keep your recovery on track, we work closely with your Hazelwood, MO medical provider, case manager, and employer when appropriate. Our team also guides you through what’s included in your coverage and what you need for authorization.
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 Hazelwood, MO
Yes, workers’ comp usually covers physical therapy—if it’s prescribed by your Hazelwood, MO 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 – As soon as you’re cleared, we’ll book your first session—typically within 48 hours.
Our team communicates with your case manager or adjuster to manage all necessary documentation, letting you concentrate on recovery. 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. FCEs give you and your care team clear, data-backed insight into whether you’re ready for full-duty work.
Axes PT works closely with your care and claims teams, but we cannot provide legal guidance. Legal concerns should always be handled by an attorney.
Benefits of Choosing Axes PT for Workers’ Comp Rehabilitation in Hazelwood, MO
When recovering from a workplace injury, timing, experience, and compassion matter. At Axes PT, we combine all three.
Faster Appointments
Because waiting too long can affect your recovery, we prioritize fast scheduling throughout Greater St. Louis.
Therapists Who Understand Work Injuries
At our Hazelwood, MO clinic, you’ll work with therapists trained in occupational rehab, ergonomics, hand therapy, and sports-related work 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, and that puts your recovery, not corporate metrics, at the center of everything we do. We focus on what matters to you—your goals, your schedule, and your comfort—not red tape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp Physical Therapy
How do I get my physical therapy covered by workers’ comp?
First, your physician must recommend PT, and then it must be approved by your employer’s workers’ comp insurer.
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.
Common examples include lower back pain, neck strain, muscle sprains, tendon inflammation, post-op rehab, and RSIs. Therapy is customized to match your work duties and recovery goals.
Do I need to choose a clinic from a list?
This varies based on your state laws and your employer’s workers’ comp guidelines.
In Missouri, you may be required to use a provider chosen by your employer or their insurance—but many injured workers can request a clinic like Axes. Talk to your adjuster to learn your options.
How long will my workers’ comp physical therapy last?
It varies based on the type of injury, your job requirements, and how well your body heals during therapy.
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 Hazelwood, MO 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.
