Manulife cut off my short term disability benefits

I was in an accident and got whiplash, and I've been off work with this injury since May 1, 2026. My doctor initially said to be off for 6 weeks. Manulife approved the claim for 5 weeks. Then 6 weeks later, after my follow up with my doctor, he indicated my injury isn't recovered and I need to wear my neck brace for another 6 weeks. And that i should be off work during this time, until my 12 week follow up appointment in July. Manulife only approved the claim until July 3rd, meaning they cut off my benefits 3 weeks before the doctor said to go work again. Its almost $4000 in missed wages then. What can i do? Can i appeal Manulife's decision? is it worth consulting with a lawyer? I imagine legal fees are more expensive than my missed wages.

thank you.