A workplace injury can impede your ability to work, move around, and enjoy life each day. When an injured worker is involved in the WSIB process, two types of rehabilitation professionals are key in helping you safely and confidently return to function: Physiotherapists (PTs) and Occupational Therapists (OTs).
All of them excel, but the magic comes when they come together. Sandalwood Physio – We are proud to offer a PT + OT approach, working collaboratively to ensure injured workers receive the most comprehensive and effective rehabilitation.
Why Both PT and OT Matter in WSIB Rehabilitation
Injuries that qualify for WSIB compensation rarely involve just one muscle or joint: they impact your function and strength, general well-being, work capacity, and activities of daily living.
Physiotherapy focuses on recovering physical function; occupational therapy addresses the practical skills needed to return to work and everyday activities.
Both together represent an entire, unified process of recovery.
1. Physiotherapy: Restoring Physical Strength and Function
The leading role physiotherapy plays in WSIB recovery is assisting injured workers with their physical healing. PT treatments commonly include:
- Pain management
Via manual treatment, modalities and exercises - Increasing the range of motion and mobility
Particularly following sprains, strains, fractures or repetitive strain injury - Improving strength and endurance
Great for return to work requirements - Rebuilding safe movement patterns
Like raising, carrying, stooping, stretching, driving, or pulling - Preventing re-injury
And it’s achieved through education on body mechanics and ergonomics
Physiotherapy provides the physical foundation that enables workers to progress toward functional and work-related task activities.
2. Occupational Therapy: Rebuilding Daily & Work-Related Abilities
Recovering functional capacity for personal use and returning to work are the primary targets in Occupational Therapy care.
OTs evaluate and train clients in the following:
- Work simulating and job-specific tasks
Overhead lift of boxes, use of tools, standing for long periods, repetitive motions, etc. - Ergonomic assessments
Guaranteeing that workstations, instruments, and work practices are safe and healthful - How to manage your energy and symptoms
Particularly on chronic injuries or extended reconvalescence - Return-to-work planning
To the extent available, part-time and transitional work schedules - Support for cognitive and mental health
Anxiety, a fear of re-injury and stress are common after workplace injury.
Physiotherapy treats the body; occupational therapy ensures you can safely and effectively use those bodies at work.
3. How PT and OT Work Together for WSIB Recovery
At Sandalwood Physio, our team will work together from the outset to map out a tailored Rehab for Work program.
Here’s what their unity does for you:
- Joint Assessments And Care Planning
Physical therapists diagnose physical disabilities, and occupational therapists evaluate functional limitations.
They jointly develop a plan to pursue both. - Combined Treatment Focus
For example:- Physical therapy helps with range of motion and strength in the shoulder
- OT trains the worker in overhead work situations needed on the job
This way, therapy is directly aligned with the worker’s return-to-work objectives.
- Work Hardening & Conditioning Programs
Work-hardening programs—often required by WSIB—combine:- PT-led strength and conditioning
- OT-led functional work simulation
This double-teaming helps prepare injured workers to handle the real-world physical demands of the job.
- Clear and Open Communication Between WSIB & Employers
PTs and OT Both PT/OT contribute to:- WSIB progress reports
- Functional abilities forms
- Return-to-work recommendations
This eases documentation burden, decreasing delays and improving results.”
4. Benefits of the PT + OT Approach for Injured Workers
- Faster recovery
Both structural and functional gaps are being bridged. - A safer and more successful return to work
When it’s over, workers return to their jobs with more muscle, skills and confidence. - Whole-person rehabilitation
There is support for physical, emotional, and job-specific needs. - Lower risk of re-injury
Good movement patterns + ergonomic techniques = long-term success.
Choose Sandalwood Physio for WSIB Rehabilitation?
At Sandalwood Physio, we pride ourselves on our combined PT + OT model of rehabilitation. With state-of-the-art equipment, professional therapists and a deep understanding of WSIB’s systems, we guarantee every injured worker has:
- Comprehensive assessments
- Personalized treatment plans
- Direct communication with WSIB
- An encouraging and inspiring rehab culture
Whether you want to return to your job, improve your mobility, or regain confidence after an injury, our team is here for you at every stage of your journey.
Are You Ready to Begin Recovering Your WSIB claim?
Call Sandalwood Physio today to book your examination and make your way towards work and everyday life.