Does Workers Comp Pay for Massage Therapy?

When an employee gets injured while on the job, there are a lot of questions that come up. One of the main ones is, “What is covered by workers’ compensation?” Are complementary treatments like massage therapy covered by workers’ comp?

While most people know about medical treatments for an injury, such as surgeries or physical therapy, many are unaware that workers’ comp might also cover massage therapy, acupuncture, and other alternative treatments.

Does workers’ comp pay for massage therapy? Here’s what you need to know.

Coverage Varies

While each state has different rules regarding workers’ compensation, the general answer is that yes, some alternative treatments are covered. However, the level of coverage varies.

Massage therapy, for example, is commonly covered. However, the number of sessions or types of massages covered could be limited. It’s important to consult with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney or your healthcare provider to find out what types of treatment are covered in your state.

How Does Massage Therapy Help After an On-the-Job Injury?

So, why might someone choose to seek out complementary treatments if they are covered by workers’ compensation?

There are a few reasons.

One is that treatments like massage therapy can provide relief from pain or discomfort. For example, it can help with muscle tension or other soft tissue injuries.

Another reason is that traditional treatments might not work for everyone. Some people might have adverse reactions to certain medications or surgeries, for example. Or they might not tolerate physical therapy well. Alternative treatments can be a good option in these cases.

Of course, there are also potential downsides to alternative treatments. They might not be effective for everyone. Some might not be covered by workers’ compensation in your state.

It’s also important to note that complementary treatments should never serve as a substitute for medical care from a qualified healthcare provider when needed. They should usually occur in conjunction with traditional treatments, not in place of them.

Other Costs

One final thing to consider is the cost of alternative treatments.

While workers’ compensation might cover alternative treatments, you might have to pay out-of-pocket costs or copays. Again, it’s important to consult with a qualified attorney or healthcare provider to determine the costs involved.

If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s important to explore all of your options for treatment, including alternative therapies like massage therapy. While workers’ comp might not cover complementary treatments in every state or situation, they can be a good option for some people.

Does Workers’ Comp Pay for Massage Therapy?

It’s important to consult with a qualified attorney or healthcare provider to find out what types of treatment workers’ comp covers in your state. It’s also important to receive transparent information about any potential costs or copays. Ultimately, the goal should be to find the treatment or combination of treatments that works best for you and your specific injury.

If you’re dealing with an injury, especially one that’s caused chronic pain, massage therapy can help. But can you rely on workers’ comp to cover the cost of this treatment? We’ll help you find out. For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss your options if you’ve been injured, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.