How Long Will Workers’ Comp Pay for Physical Therapy?

If you’ve been injured at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation, also known colloquially as workers’ comp. Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program, paid for by employers, that provides support to those who have been injured while working.

The benefits of workers’ comp are designed to help cover medical expenses and disability. However, you may be wondering, “Does workers’ comp pay for physical therapy?” The good news is that the answer is usually yes, as long as physical therapy is medically necessary.

But how long will workers’ comp pay for physical therapy? Are there limitations to how much or how long they will pay? And what are the factors that influence coverage duration?

At ZK Physical Therapy & Chiropractic, we go the extra mile for our clients, providing not just treatment but comprehensive, personalized care. Today we have some information on workers’ comp that may help you understand the process, and ultimately, help restore your health.

How Workers’ Compensation Covers Physical Therapy

Workers’ compensation is insurance almost all businesses in Nevada are required to carry. It helps to avoid acrimonious lawsuits between employers and employees when there has been an injury in the workplace. There is also no need to prove that negligence happened on the part of the employer, just that the injury happened during the course of work. 

Workers’ comp typically covers physical therapy when it’s medically necessary. Once an injury claim is approved, physical therapy may be authorized as part of the treatment plan. Coverage generally covers evaluations, in-office exercises, self-directed home exercises, and other medically relevant treatments.

Common Workplace Injuries Requiring Physical Therapy

The most common injuries suffered at work are repetitive stress injuries and injuries resulting from accidents. The most common of these injuries are likely back injuries from jobs that require bending, lifting, and other repetitive movements. Other injuries to major joints, such as knees, shoulders, and the neck, are also common.

Repetitive stress injuries often affect the limbs, and can include conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and more. Injuries can also result from serious accidents, such as falls or auto crashes. 

How Long Will Workers’ Comp Pay for Physical Therapy?

In Nevada, workers’ compensation will typically pay for medical services as long as medically necessary. For the payment of medical services, such as physical therapy, there are no arbitrary caps or limitations on how much insurance will pay in the state.

However, in addition to a physical therapist, a doctor may play a role in deciding how long “medically necessary” actually means. The doctor will help determine when physical therapy is necessary, how much may be necessary, and when the rehabilitation process is complete.

Sometimes additional therapy is needed. ZK Physical Therapy & Chiropractic provides regular progress reports and assessments that can help paint a full picture of recovery, so you get the treatment that you deserve.

Factors That Influence Coverage Duration

Many factors influence coverage duration. The number one factor is the severity of your injury. Injuries that are more severe often require lengthier therapy to repair and heal. Conditions such as back injuries, fractures, and compound injuries resulting from accidents may take more time to heal than others.

Treatment progress is another factor. Younger people and people who are in better health before the accident of injury usually heal faster. Progress reports and treatment recommendations can play a big role in helping to document progress.

Ongoing treatment must also demonstrate that it’s medically necessary. When therapy is able to help workers improve body function, a reduction in pain or other symptoms, and is ultimately helping them return to work, it is more likely to be approved for longer. 

Why Following Your Treatment Plan Matters

Following your treatment plan helps provide documentation that your treatment plan is medically necessary and working. Consistent attendance helps your doctor know that you are serious about recovery and returning to work. In short, following your treatment plan demonstrates a commitment to recovery. 

Accurate documentation is also critical to workers’ comp cases. Our therapists regularly track objective measurements of recovery, outcomes, and other information that can help your case.

Call ZK Physical Therapy & Chiropractic Today for Physical Therapy in Las Vegas

ZK Physical Therapy & Chiropractic works with injured workers by providing individualized care, progress tracking, and rehabilitation support. We understand the challenges injured workers face during the recovery process and aim to make paying for recovery as seamless as possible. 

If you’ve been injured, call today, or check out our frequently asked questions for more information.