If you’re going through physical therapy for an injury you may be wondering how long after physical therapy do you get settlement? Generally, once you’ve finished physical therapy and reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) then the settlement process can start. But it depends on many factors from the extent of your injuries to the completion of your treatment plan. This article will go over the role of physical therapy in recovery, how it affects settlement timing, and how consistent documented therapy can help your case.
At La Clínica SC and our physical therapy clinic, we know every recovery is different. Contact us today to talk about how our physical therapy can help your recovery and get you back to moving.
How Physical Therapy Affects Settlement Timing
Physical therapy is key to getting you back to strength, mobility and independence after an injury. Your physical therapist will work with you to create a plan that includes exercises, stretches and treatments to get you to maximum recovery. This usually ends with MMI, meaning you’ve reached the highest level of improvement possible for your condition.
Once MMI is reached it’s easier to determine future medical needs and get an accurate settlement amount for your injuries. According to the American Physical Therapy Association physical therapy is essential for recovering after an accident or surgery and getting patients back to daily activities safely (source: APTA).
Factors That Affect The Settlement Timeline After Physical Therapy
Here are the factors:
1. Severity of Injuries and Length of Therapy
The extent and type of injury will affect the timeline. For example, severe injuries like spinal injuries or complex fractures will take months of physical therapy to reach MMI. Only then can a settlement evaluation be done. Minor injuries will take less therapy and can speed up the process.
2. Consistent Documentation of Therapy
Accurate records are key to the settlement process. Your physical therapist will document your condition, progress and overall recovery which are all important to value your case. This documentation is objective evidence of your recovery journey, showing both the challenges and improvements over time. Missing or incomplete records will delay the process as insurers will request more proof.
3. The Insurance Company
The insurance company will review medical records and MMI status, looking at your long term needs and any limitations from your injury. Some insurance companies will be proactive in settling claims while others will delay the process to reduce the payout. Keeping in touch with your insurance company or attorney will keep the process moving and address any questions about the therapy timeline or treatment necessity.
4. Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
Reaching MMI is key. This means your physical therapy is complete and your health has stabilized to the best possible level. With MMI your physical therapist and medical team can better estimate future costs and needs and have a clear basis for settlement. If MMI is delayed or therapy is extended the settlement timeline will be affected.
The Physical Therapy Process
Physical therapy is the foundation of recovery getting patients moving and reducing pain. For those involved in personal injury claims therapy is not just about healing but about creating a clear record of progress and long term needs. The physical therapy process includes:
- Assessment and Treatment Plan: Your physical therapist will assess your injury, determine your limitations and create a treatment plan with exercises and treatments to get you back to moving.
- Exercises and Therapy: Therapy sessions may include strength training, stretching, balance exercises and manual therapies. Each session builds on the previous one towards your individual goals.
- Progress Evaluations and Adjustments: Physical therapists will monitor your progress and adjust exercises as you get stronger and more mobile. This ongoing documentation is key to supporting a fair settlement.
- Home Exercise Programs: Therapists will often assign exercises for you to do at home to support your recovery and show you are committed to getting better.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Physical Therapy for a Settlement
Physical therapy is not just about the sessions; it’s about being fully invested in the healing process. Here’s how you can get the best recovery and support your case:
- Follow Your Treatment Plan: Attend all sessions, do all home exercises and follow your therapist’s advice. Consistency shows you are committed to your recovery and strengthens your case.
- Document Everything: Keep records of all appointments, progress reports and out of pocket expenses. This will be valuable to insurers when assessing your recovery journey.
- Talk to Your Physical Therapist: Share any concerns or issues with your therapist. If adjustments are needed proactive communication can address any setbacks or delays in your recovery.
Conclusion: Patience and Preparation = Smoother Settlement
The time between finishing physical therapy and settlement can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the insurer’s response. But understanding these factors and keeping consistent documentation will make the process smoother and more likely to get a fair settlement.
If you’re in Chicago La Clínica SC offers personalized physical therapy services to support your recovery. Whether you’re recovering from an accident or surgery our team will help you get back to 100%. Contact us today to find out how we can support you through every stage of your recovery.
