An injury at work can turn your routine upside down. One day you are on the job as usual, and the next you are attending medical appointments and physiotherapy sessions under Workers’ Compensation Board care. A common question that follows is simple and practical. Should you continue working while undergoing WCB physiotherapy?
The answer depends on your injury, your job demands, and your healthcare team’s recommendations. There is no single rule that fits everyone. Understanding how physiotherapy and work can fit together helps you make a safer and more confident decision.
The Goal of WCB Physiotherapy
WCB physiotherapy is designed to help you recover from a workplace injury and return to safe employment. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring movement, rebuilding strength, and improving function.
Your physiotherapist will assess how the injury affects your ability to perform job tasks. This includes lifting, standing, walking, bending, typing, or operating equipment. The treatment plan often includes exercises, manual therapy, and education on posture and body mechanics.
The main objective is to support recovery while preventing further strain.
When Continuing to Work Can Help
In many cases, staying at work in some capacity can support healing.
Light duties or modified tasks keep you active without placing excess stress on the injured area. Gentle movement promotes circulation and reduces stiffness. Being at work can also support mental wellbeing by maintaining routine and social connection.
For example, someone recovering from a mild back strain may return to desk based tasks while avoiding heavy lifting. A worker with a shoulder injury might handle administrative work instead of overhead tasks. Remaining active within safe limits often speeds up functional recovery.
The Importance of Modified Duties
Modified duties are often the key to balancing work and treatment.
Your employer, WCB case manager, and physiotherapist typically communicate about your functional abilities. Instead of focusing on what you cannot do, the discussion centers on what you can do safely.
Modified duties may include reduced hours, lighter tasks, seated work, or frequent rest breaks. These adjustments allow you to stay engaged in your role without delaying recovery.
Clear communication between all parties helps prevent misunderstandings and supports a smooth transition back to full duties over time.
When Time Off May Be Necessary
There are situations where continuing to work is not recommended.
If your job involves heavy physical labour and your injury is acute or severe, returning too soon may worsen the condition. For example, a serious knee injury or a recent surgery may require temporary rest before gradual reintroduction of activity.
High pain levels, reduced mobility, or significant swelling are signs that the body needs additional recovery time.
Your physiotherapist will evaluate your progress and advise when work is appropriate. Following professional guidance reduces the risk of setbacks.
Listening to Your Body During Treatment
Even if you return to work, paying attention to symptoms remains important.
Mild soreness during rehabilitation can be normal, especially as strength improves. Sharp pain, increasing swelling, or loss of function is not.
If work tasks cause discomfort beyond your current limits, inform your physiotherapist and supervisor promptly. Adjustments can be made before the issue becomes serious. Rehabilitation is rarely a straight line. Some days feel stronger than others. Honest communication keeps your recovery on track.
Balancing Appointments and Work Hours
Physiotherapy sessions under WCB care are part of your approved treatment plan. Scheduling may require flexibility from both you and your employer.
Many clinics offer appointments early in the morning or later in the day to reduce disruption. In some cases, WCB policies allow time off work to attend treatment.
Staying consistent with therapy sessions is crucial. Skipping appointments can slow improvement and extend time away from full duties.
The Psychological Side of Recovery
Work is tied to identity, structure, and purpose. Being away from the workplace for long periods can affect mood and motivation. Returning in a modified role often restores a sense of normalcy. It can also build confidence as you see your body improving in real life situations.
At the same time, pushing yourself to meet pre injury expectations too quickly can create stress and frustration. Setting realistic milestones with your physiotherapist helps manage expectations.
Making the Right Decision for You
There is no universal answer to staying at work during WCB physiotherapy. The right approach depends on your injury type, your pain level, and the physical demands of your job.
In many cases, modified duties combined with structured physiotherapy create a balanced path forward. For more serious injuries, a short period of rest may be necessary before returning in stages.
The most important step is collaboration. When you, your healthcare provider, employer, and case manager work together, recovery becomes clearer and safer.
Healing takes time and steady effort. With the right support, you can move toward full function while protecting your long term health.
Visit Us for WCB Physiotherapy in Edmonton
Are you in need of WCB physiotherapy in Edmonton? Our team is here to help you recover from your workplace injury and get back to doing what you love. We work closely with your healthcare provider, employer, and case manager to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Our highly trained physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques and exercises to help you regain strength, mobility, and function in the affected area.
