Workplace injuries are tough—physically, financially, and emotionally. If you were hurt at work in Ontario, understanding how to navigate the WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) process for physiotherapy can make recovery smoother. This guide explains what WSIB covers, how to file, what to expect in treatment, and how to plan a safe return to work—so you can focus on getting better. Services available in Richmond Hill.
Learn More: Work Injury & WSIB Physiotherapy
What WSIB Covers (and When)
Quick answer: Does WSIB cover physiotherapy? Yes—when your claim is approved, WSIB funds necessary healthcare like physiotherapy to help you recover and return to work. Coverage decisions are based on your injury details, medical documentation, and WSIB policies.
What injuries are eligible? Typically, injuries that happen while doing your job, on employer premises during work hours, at approved work events, or while traveling for work (not your routine commute). Common examples include back/neck strains, shoulder injuries, slips and falls, and repetitive strain injuries. Services available in Richmond Hill.
Step 1: Report the Injury Right Away
Tell your employer as soon as possible and write down when, where, and how it happened (plus any witnesses). Do I have a deadline? You must file your WSIB claim within 6 months of the accident (or of learning your condition is work-related). Filing sooner is better.
Employer timelines: Once an injury meets reporting criteria (e.g., medical care, lost time, modified work), your employer must submit Form 7 to WSIB within 3 business days of learning of the obligation. Late filing can trigger penalties.
Step 2: File Your WSIB Claim (The Three Core Forms)
Worker – Form 6: Your report of injury/disease. You can submit online or by sending the PDF to WSIB.
Employer – Form 7: Employer’s report of injury/disease (submitted by your workplace).
Health Professional – Form 8: Completed by your clinician to document diagnosis, findings, and work abilities.
Tips for smoother approval (answer-first): Be precise and consistent, include all medical notes, submit quickly, keep copies, and follow up to confirm receipt
Step 3: WSIB Review & Decision
A WSIB adjudicator reviews all documentation (you, employer, clinician). How long does it take? Timelines vary, but many workers receive a decision within a few weeks depending on case complexity. If approved, you may receive:
Physiotherapy coverage
Loss-of-Earnings (LOE) benefits—generally 85% of your net average earnings if you can’t work or can only work reduced duties/hours
Support for a safe return-to-work plan
If denied: You can object and appeal. Decision letters include deadlines—sometimes 30 days, commonly 6 months—for submitting an Intent to Object form
Step 4: Accessing WSIB-Covered Physiotherapy
Can I choose my clinic? Yes. You can select any WSIB-registered physiotherapy clinic experienced with workplace injuries and WSIB paperwork. Services available in Richmond Hill.
Your first visit usually includes: a thorough assessment, a personalized plan with goals and timelines, baseline measures, and completion of any required WSIB documentation.
The WSIB Musculoskeletal Program of Care (MSK POC)
For most sprains/strains of the spine and extremities (and other common MSK injuries), WSIB uses the MSK Program of Care—a standardized, evidence-informed pathway focused on early, active rehab and return-to-work planning. Is the MSK POC mandatory? It’s the first-line program for eligible MSK injuries
Step 5: Your Physiotherapy Treatment Plan
Expect a combination of:
Manual therapy and joint mobilizations to reduce pain and improve movement
Targeted exercise to restore strength and endurance for your job demands
Education on pacing, body mechanics, and flare-up management
Adjuncts (when appropriate), such as acupuncture, shockwave, or laser therapy
Work-specific functional training to match your actual tasks
How often will I go? Frequency is based on injury type and stage (often about two times per week early on), then tapers as you improve. Your clinician reports progress to WSIB and can request extensions if medically necessary. Will I pay out-of-pocket? With an approved claim, WSIB pays the clinic directly for authorized services. Services available in Richmond Hill.
Step 6: Return-to-Work (RTW) Planning
What does RTW look like? Your physiotherapist will outline your functional abilities and recommend modified duties or reduced hours as needed. Many workers benefit from a graduated plan that ramps up safely. WSIB helps coordinate among you, your employer, and your providers. With WSIB’s support, the majority of injured workers return to work within 12 months.
Step 7: After Your Claim Closes
Your claim usually closes when you’ve completed care, reached maximum medical recovery, or returned to pre-injury duties. Can a claim be re-opened? Yes—if symptoms recur or worsen and are connected to the original injury, you can request a recurrence review with updated medical evidence. Timelines depend on your file and circumstances—act promptly and speak with your clinician or representative.
FAQs
Do I need a doctor’s referral for WSIB physiotherapy?
You don’t need a physician referral to see a physiotherapist in Ontario, but WSIB requires health-professional documentation (Form 8) as part of your claim file.
How long do I have to file a WSIB claim?
Generally 6 months from the accident or from when you learned the condition is work-related (for gradual onset/occupational disease). File as soon as possible.
How much wage replacement does WSIB pay if I can’t work?
LOE benefits are usually 85% of your net average earnings, subject to WSIB rules.
Can I choose my physiotherapy provider?
Yes—choose any WSIB-registered clinic experienced with work injuries and WSIB reporting. Services available in Richmond Hill.
Is there a standard number of physio sessions?
WSIB authorizes treatment based on injury type, progress, and the MSK POC pathway. Your provider updates WSIB regularly and can request more if clinically needed.
