What physical therapy Does After a Car Accident
Physical therapy addresses the musculoskeletal consequences of car accident injuries: muscle weakness and guarding, joint stiffness and restricted range of motion, soft tissue adhesions and scar tissue, postural dysfunction, and movement pattern compensation. Through targeted exercise, manual therapy, and therapeutic modalities, PT restores normal function and reduces chronic pain development.
What to Expect at Your Sessions
At your initial PT evaluation at MAIC, a licensed physical therapist will measure your range of motion with a goniometer, assess your functional limitations with standardized instruments, and establish a baseline for tracking your progress. Each subsequent session documents the same objective measures, creating a longitudinal record of functional improvement — or plateau — that is directly relevant to your case.
How Long Does PT Take?
Treatment duration depends on injury severity. Most car accident PT courses run 6 to 12 weeks for moderate injuries, with more severe injuries requiring longer courses. The WCB Medical Treatment Guidelines set specific durations for PT under No-Fault; No-Fault PT is authorized based on medical necessity and ongoing documented improvement.
No-Fault Coverage
Physical therapy is fully covered under New York No-Fault insurance. MAIC handles all authorization and billing. Call (888) 991-5290.