WSIB Physiotherapy for Injured Workers in Burlington: Your Complete Guide

Cogent Rehab Blog

Folarin Babatunde PT PhD MScSEM MScPT BScPT

September 23, 2025

Introduction

Workplace injuries can happen when you least expect them — whether on a construction site, in an office, or while driving for work. In Ontario, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provides coverage for workers who are injured on the job. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping injured workers recover, return to work safely, and prevent future injuries.

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our registered physiotherapists are experienced in treating WSIB patients and guiding them through the entire recovery process.

Electrician standing on a ladder at work — demonstrating risk of falls and workplace injuries treated with WSIB physiotherapy in Burlington

What Is WSIB Physiotherapy?

WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) physiotherapy is rehabilitation care funded by WSIB for employees who suffer workplace injuries or illnesses. The goal is to:

• Reduce pain and restore function

• Support return-to-work plans safely and effectively

• Prevent re-injury through education and ergonomic advice

• Improve mobility and strength for job-specific demands

Once your claim is approved, WSIB covers the cost of your physiotherapy sessions.

WSIB Programs of Care (PoCs)

WSIB organizes treatment into standardized Programs of Care (PoCs) that follow best practice guidelines for common workplace injuries. At Cogent Rehab, we deliver care under these evidence-based programs:

Program of Care	Purpose	Typical Injuries	Duration	Link
Musculoskeletal Program of Care (MSK PoC)	Provides early, structured treatment for strains, sprains, and musculoskeletal injuries (including low back pain)	Neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and low back injuries	Up to 8 weeks	WSIB Musculoskeletal PoC
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Program of Care (mTBI PoC)	Early care for non-complex concussions to reduce symptoms and support return to work	Work-related concussions, falls, mild head injuries	Up to 8 weeks, with staged progression	WSIB mTBI Program of Care
Specialized/Extended Care	For complex or severe injuries needing longer rehabilitation	Fractures, post-surgical rehab, chronic conditions	Varies by case	Approval required by WSIB

These programs ensure injured workers receive timely, structured, and effective rehabilitation, while maintaining clear communication with WSIB, employers, and healthcare providers.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start WSIB Physiotherapy

1. Report the Injury

   • Inform your employer right away about the workplace injury or illness.

   • Complete the WSIB “Worker’s Report of Injury/Illness” (Form 6).

2. Employer Submits Their Report

   • Your employer files the “Employer’s Report of Injury/Illness” (Form 7) with WSIB.

3. Seek Medical Assessment

   • See a healthcare provider for an official diagnosis. At Cogent Rehab, your physiotherapist can also complete an initial assessment that supports your WSIB claim.

4. Open a WSIB Claim

   • WSIB reviews the reports and decides whether to approve your claim.

5. Book a Physiotherapy Appointment at Cogent Rehab

   • Once your WSIB claim is approved, you can start physiotherapy with us immediately. We are a WSIB-registered provider.

6. Assessment & Treatment Plan

   • At your first visit, your physiotherapist will identify the right Program of Care for your injury and submit the plan to WSIB.

7. Ongoing Treatment & Progress Reports

   • Treatment typically lasts up to 8 weeks. We send regular progress updates to WSIB to keep your case moving smoothly.

Common Workplace Injuries Treated With Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy helps manage a wide range of WSIB-related injuries, including:

• Back and neck injuries (lifting injuries, poor ergonomics, whiplash). See our Orthopaedic Physiotherapy services.

• Shoulder, elbow, and wrist injuries (repetitive strain, slips and falls).

• Knee and ankle injuries (twisting, falls, heavy impact).

• Fracture and post-surgical rehabilitation.

• Concussions and head injuries sustained at work. Visit our Concussion Physiotherapy in Burlington.

• Chronic pain conditions from repetitive tasks.

Injured worker with suspected leg fracture immobilized on site while awaiting emergency services — example of a workplace injury requiring WSIB physiotherapy in Burlington

The WSIB Physiotherapy Process at Cogent Rehab

If you are injured at work in Burlington, here’s what to expect at our clinic:

1. Initial Assessment

   • We assess your injury, medical history, and job demands.

   • A personalized treatment plan is then created to help meet your goals.

2. Communication with WSIB

   • We submit required reports and communicate directly with WSIB to streamline your claim.

3. Treatment Plan

   • Hands-on therapy, exercise prescription, and education tailored to your job requirements.

   • Ergonomic and workplace safety advice. See our Workplace Wellness & Ergonomic Assessment services.

4. Return-to-Work Support

   • Gradual work conditioning and job-specific rehabilitation to ensure a safe transition back to work.

Why Choose Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington?

• WSIB-Registered Clinic – We are an approved provider of WSIB physiotherapy services.

• Expertise Across Injury Types – From orthopaedic to neurological rehabilitation.

• Convenient Burlington Location – Easily accessible for local workers and employers.

• Holistic Care – Beyond injury recovery, we focus on prevention, ergonomics, and long-term health.

• Direct Communication – We handle the paperwork with WSIB so you can focus on healing.

Book Your WSIB Physiotherapy Appointment in Burlington

If you’ve been injured at work, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you start rehabilitation, the faster your recovery and safe return to work with our WSIB physiotherapy services in Burlington.

Visit us at 3077 New Street, Suites 300-302, Burlington, Ontario

Call us today: (905) 635-4422

Email: contactus@cogentrehab.com

Book An Appointment Today

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need a doctor’s referral for WSIB physiotherapy?

No. Once your WSIB claim is approved, you can start physiotherapy directly.

Q2: How much does WSIB physiotherapy cost?

There is no cost to you. WSIB covers approved physiotherapy treatments in full.

Q3: What if my claim is not approved yet?

You can still begin treatment, but billing may depend on claim approval. Our team can guide you through this process.

Q4: How long will my physiotherapy last?

This depends on your injury, job demands, and progress. WSIB approves treatment plans in set blocks, with extensions if required.

For more details, visit WSIB Ontario – Injured Workers.