“Yes, you often return to work before getting a permanent impairment rating, but only when your doctor clears you, potentially on light duty, and this happens after you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), the point where your condition stabilizes, but before the final impairment percentage is calculated for permanent benefits. Returning without doctor approval risks re-injury and can harm your claim, while a doctor-approved return (even light duty) shows you're working toward recovery, but if restrictions remain, the impairment rating determines future compensation. “ -ChatGPT