Workplace injuries can happen in all types of jobs—from lifting and repetitive motion to slips, falls, or strain that builds over time. One of the first questions people ask after getting hurt at work is whether their employer’s insurance will cover chiropractic care. The short answer is yes: in Washington State, workers’ compensation (L&I) often covers chiropractic treatment when the care is connected to a documented workplace injury and is medically appropriate.
At McAuley Family Chiropractic, we’ve been helping injured workers in Federal Way and Puyallup for more than 20 years. A big part of our work includes guiding patients through the treatment process, as well as the documentation and communication required for L&I or employer insurance. This blog breaks down what to expect, what chiropractic care can do for you, and how the claims process generally works.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Chiropractic Care
Washington State’s Labor & Industries (L&I) program provides medical benefits to workers who are hurt on the job. This includes chiropractic care when it supports your recovery and helps you return to work safely. Whether your injury happened during one specific incident or developed from repetitive tasks over time, you may qualify for treatment coverage.
L&I recognizes that workplace injuries often affect the spine, joints, and soft tissues. Chiropractic care can help address these issues by restoring motion, easing inflammation, and supporting long-term healing—all of which can help you return to your job with confidence.
Common Workplace Injuries That Benefit From Chiropractic Treatment
Many work tasks involve movement that places stress on the neck, back, shoulders, and hips. When these areas are strained or injured, pain can build quickly. Chiropractic care focuses on reducing that irritation and improving how your body moves so healing can begin.
Here are some of the most common injury types L&I patients seek chiropractic care for:
- Back or neck strain from lifting or repetitive tasks
- Slip-and-fall injuries that affect the spine or joints
- Shoulder and hip pain from overexertion
- Nerve irritation from posture or repetitive motion
- Whiplash from workplace vehicle accidents
These injuries can interrupt your job and daily life. Early treatment often helps prevent the pain from becoming long-lasting or limiting your ability to work.
What Chiropractic Treatment Looks Like During an L&I Claim
Once your workplace injury is reported and accepted, your treatment plan will be designed around your exam results and your recovery goals. Chiropractic care during an L&I claim focuses on restoring function and helping your body move without discomfort. At our offices in Federal Way and Puyallup, L&I treatment often includes a blend of the following:
- Chiropractic adjustments to improve joint motion
- Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension
- Guided exercises to help rebuild strength and stability
- Postural and movement strategies to support healing
Each visit is documented clearly so your claim reflects your progress and your need for continued care.
Why Documentation Matters in Workplace Injury Cases
Accurate records help ensure your claim stays active and reflect the progress you’re making throughout care. Because we manage many workplace injury and personal injury cases, our clinic understands how to track your treatment from start to finish.
We provide clear reports for your L&I file, including exam findings, objective measurements, updates on your progress, treatment notes, and diagnostic referrals when needed. This documentation helps show why ongoing treatment is appropriate and how it supports your return to work.
With more than two decades of experience in the Federal Way and Puyallup communities, we are familiar with the expectations of claims managers and the information required for smooth claim approval and follow-through.
Choosing a Chiropractor With Workplace Injury Experience
Not all chiropractic clinics work regularly with L&I or employer insurance, and this can make a difference in both your recovery and the claims process. When you choose a clinic familiar with workplace injury cases, you gain a team that understands spinal care as well as the administrative steps involved in keeping your claim moving.
At McAuley Family Chiropractic, we have long-standing experience with workplace injury documentation, L&I guidelines, and communication with claims managers. We also understand the physical demands of different jobs, which helps us tailor your care to the type of work you’re returning to.
Patients often tell us they feel more supported when their chiropractic team explains what to expect, helps manage the paperwork, and focuses on helping them recover safely and smoothly.
Start Your Workplace Injury Recovery With McAuley Family Chiropractic
If you’ve been injured at work and you’re wondering whether chiropractic care is covered, you don’t have to sort through the process alone. Our team is here to guide you through your recovery and support your claim with clear records and personalized care.
Reach out to McAuley Family Chiropractic in Federal Way or Puyallup to schedule your visit. We’re ready to help you feel better, move better, and get back to work with confidence.
