What Is WCB Physiotherapy and How Is It Accessed?

 

Workplace injuries can affect a person’s ability to carry out their job and manage daily tasks comfortably. In Alberta, many workers who are injured on the job may be eligible for physiotherapy services through the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB). WCB physiotherapy refers to treatment supported under this system, designed to help workers manage symptoms, restore mobility, and support a safe return to work. Understanding what WCB physiotherapy is and how it can be accessed may help individuals feel more informed if they ever need to use this service.

When someone sustains a workplace injury—such as a back strain, repetitive motion issue, or joint injury—they can report it to their employer and the WCB. Once the claim is approved, physiotherapy services may be covered as part of their recovery plan. The role of WCB physiotherapy is to assess the nature of the injury, provide appropriate treatment, and monitor progress toward recovery and return-to-work goals. The process typically begins with an assessment, where the physiotherapist evaluates the injury, listens to the worker’s concerns, and outlines a treatment plan tailored to their needs.

Treatment in WCB physiotherapy may involve a combination of manual therapy, targeted exercises, and education to support healing and function. Exercises are often designed to restore strength, flexibility, and endurance in the affected area, while manual techniques may help reduce stiffness and discomfort. Education plays a key role, as workers may learn strategies for safe lifting, posture, or task modifications that reduce the risk of aggravating the injury once they return to the workplace. In some cases, WCB physiotherapy may also involve functional capacity evaluations to help determine whether a worker is ready to resume full duties or if modifications are needed.

Accessing WCB physiotherapy generally requires a worker to see a physiotherapy clinic that is approved by WCB. Workers do not usually need a referral to begin care. After the injury is reported and a claim is opened, the individual can make an appointment at a participating clinic, where the first assessment is often directly billed to WCB. Ongoing treatments may then be authorized based on the physiotherapist’s recommendations and WCB’s guidelines. This structure helps ensure that workers have timely access to care without the added stress of out-of-pocket expenses.

At Granville Physiotherapy, WCB physiotherapy is provided with a focus on supporting safe recovery and return to activity. The team works closely with both the worker and WCB to ensure treatment plans align with recovery goals and workplace requirements. Each approach is adapted to the individual’s unique situation, recognizing that every job and every injury is different.

To make care more accessible, Granville Physiotherapy also offers direct billing, acceptance of most insurance plans, same-day appointments, and no referral requirements. Walk-in patients are welcome, and the clinic provides free parking and wheelchair accessibility to reduce barriers to care.

WCB physiotherapy may be an important step in the recovery journey for workers dealing with an injury. By offering targeted treatment, education, and support, it can help individuals return to work with greater comfort and confidence. If you have experienced a workplace injury and are looking for care through WCB, you can book an appointment with Granville Physiotherapy to begin your recovery process.