Physiotherapy after a car accident

Article looking at how Physiotherapy helps your recovery after a car accident and how to claim this through CTP insurance.

ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

4/17/20254 min read

a close up of a broken glass window
a close up of a broken glass window

Physiotherapy after a car accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. Often, one of the most effective ways to recover from the physical injuries sustained in such incidents is through physiotherapy. If you are not liable for the accident, the costs of this can usually be claimed back or funded by the CTP Insurer of the person at fault. This can be done directly through the CTP Insurer or through your lawyer, if you have decided to appoint one.

Why choose Restorativ Physiotherapy?

Recovery following a car accident, otherwise known as an RTA (Road Traffic Accident), usually happens over an extended period and pain related to the injury often come and go or flare up unexpectedly, in response to the normal requirements of your day-to-day living. In some cases, the symptoms of whiplash, only appear a few weeks after the accident.

  1. Managing pain: Car accidents often result in injuries like whiplash, fractures, and soft tissue damage. Physiotherapy helps manage pain through techniques such as manual therapy, strengthening exercises, and modalities like ultrasound and dry needling.

  2. Restoring mobility: Injuries can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion. Physiotherapists design personalized exercise programs to restore flexibility and strength, helping you regain normal movement.

  3. Preventing long-term damage: Without proper treatment, injuries from a car accident can lead to chronic pain and sometimes long-term disability. Physiotherapy aims to addresses the root cause of pain and promotes healing, reducing the risk of future complications.

  4. Improving functionality: Physiotherapy aims to restore your ability to perform daily activities. This includes not only physical exercises but also education on posture and ergonomics to prevent re-injury.

Arranging physiotherapy through CTP insurance
  1. Seek medical attention: After a car accident, the first step is to see a doctor. Obtain a medical certificate detailing your injuries and get an overview of the recommended treatment.

  2. Report the accident: Notify the police about the car accident and obtain a Police Accident Report Reference Number. This is often required for your CTP claim.

  3. Contact your CTP insurer/lawyer: Begin the claims process by contacting your CTP insurer or lawyer. Provide them with details of the car accident, including the Police Accident Report Reference Number, and submit the necessary forms and supporting documents.

  4. Approval and documentation: Once your CTP claim is approved, you will receive a claim number and details of your CTP insurer. You will need to provide this information to your physiotherapist.

  5. Book your Physiotherapy appointment: When booking your initial physiotherapy appointment, please let us know that you intend to claim through CTP insurance. Bring your claim number, insurer details, and medical certificate to your first session.

  6. Payment and reimbursement: Initially, you may need to pay for your physiotherapy sessions out-of-pocket until all documentation is completed and approved by your insurer. Once approved, your insurer will cover the cost of reasonable and necessary treatments.

  7. Be patient: Recovery takes time and will have up and downs. It’s important to stay committed to the process, remain positive and remember that the majority of people do recover and are able to manage their conditions, especially when they actively partake in their home exercise programs.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process after a car accident. It not only helps in managing pain and restoring mobility but also prevents long-term complications. If you’ve been in a car accident, seeking physiotherapy through CTP insurance can significantly enhance your recovery and improve your quality of life. Our clinic has significant experience across all areas of Musculoskeletal Physio, and we pride ourselves on getting to know you personally and to help ensure a positive outcome. We are conveniently located in Pimpama, serving the Coomera, Upper Coomera, Ormeau, Jacobs Well, Steiglitz and Hope Island community.

Frequently asked questions

Will I have to pay for my treatments at your clinic?

Once your CTP claim has been approved and you have a claim number, we are happy to bill the CTP insurer directly, meaning there are no out-of-pocket costs for you. If you don’t yet have a claim number, we will need you to cover the cost of the treatment. You can usually claim this back from the CTP insurer.

How does treatment after CTP approval work?

We start with one or two physiotherapy assessment and treatments, which are preapproved by the insurer. Thereafter, based on our clinical findings, we create and submit a treatment plan to the CTP insurer (and your lawyer if appointed). This usually takes 10 days to sign off by the CTP insurer. At this point, we continue to treat you at no cost to yourself for the duration of the plan.

What does a treatment plan include?

Treatment plans will vary depending on the injury and your progress. We always start with Physiotherapy sessions, which includes a full assessment and treatment. We then focus on a combination of treatment and on-site gym sessions, which will help to strengthen your body to help you recover from your injury. These sessions usually last between 45-60 minutes and take place weekly. Once clinically indicated, we reduce them to fortnightly as we progress towards you being able to self-manage your injury.

What happens if I need more treatment?

If clinically indicated, we will continue to submit treatment plans to the CTP insurer and work with them to agree a plan that supports your recovery. Our end goal is to get you to a place where you can self-manage your condition.

Where are you located?

We are located in the Pimpama Health Precinct (by Seven-11 and Coffee Club) just off Junction 49. Just head up to the first floor using the lift or stairs and you will see us on the right. View full contact details and directions here.

How do I book?

You can either book a private consultation online, give us a call on 07 5551 6255 or email info@restorativphysio.com.au