Did you know that manual laborers, construction workers, medical professionals, office workers and warehouse workers are among the individuals most at risk of sustaining back-related injuries? One in every five workplace injuries or illnesses is a back injury and more than one million workers suffer from such injuries each year.
When unforeseen accidents occur in workplaces, understanding the ins and outs of workers’ compensation can make all the difference.
Workers’ compensation acts as a safety net for employees, offering financial protection when accidents happen on the job. It is worth noting that the rules and laws for workers’ compensation in North Carolina can be different from other states so you need to make sure that you are familiarizing yourself with local laws.
In this post, we’ll help you decide whether or not you should hire a lawyer after sustaining a back injury at work.
The Common Causes of Workplace Back Injuries
Workers compensation attorney Weston S. Montrose says it may surprise you that simple everyday actions can be one of the most common causes that lead to workplace back injuries. Awareness of these common causes is the first step in preventing these injuries.
Slouching in your chair for long periods of time can strain your back muscles and lead to pain and discomfort. Lifting heavy objects without using proper form can put excessive strain on your back, leading to muscle strains, sprains, or even herniated discs.
Other common causes of workplace back injuries include repetitive motions, such as bending or twisting, slips, trips, and falls.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of a Back Injury
Spotting the signs and symptoms of a strained back can help you swiftly take action. If you experience sudden pain or stiffness in your back after lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive tasks, it could be a sign of a back injury.
Here’s what you should pay attention to:
- Any tingling or numbness, whether in your back or legs, could indicate nerve damage.
- Any loss of range of motion or difficulty bending or twisting.
- Muscle spasms, swelling, and bruising in the back area.
If you experience any of these signs, reporting the injury to your supervisor and seeking immediate medical attention is vital to prevent worsening and delay in recovery.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Process
Understanding the steps in filing workers’ compensation claims can help ensure you receive the support and benefits you deserve. Here are the crucial steps you should remember:
Report the Injury:
As the first step, report your back injury to your employer as soon as possible. Ensure you provide all necessary documentation, including medical records and incident reports, to support your claim.
File a Claim:
Your employer will then provide you with the necessary forms to file a workers’ compensation claim. Accuracy and completeness are crucial when completing these forms.
Claim Review:
Once submitted, your claim will be reviewed by either the workers’ compensation board or an insurance company. They may request additional information or schedule a medical examination.
Approved Claim:
If your claim is approved, you’ll start receiving benefits, including medical treatment and wage replacement, in accordance with workers’ compensation laws in your state.
Seeking Medical Treatment for a Work-Related Back Injury
When seeking medical treatment for a work-related back injury, it’s important to promptly consult with a healthcare professional. This will ensure proper care and support for your recovery.
Don’t delay in scheduling an appointment with a doctor who specializes in treating work-related injuries. They will have the expertise needed to accurately diagnose and develop an effective treatment plan for your specific situation.
Be sure to provide a detailed account of how the injury occurred and any symptoms you’re experiencing. This information will be needed for the doctor’s evaluation. Follow the doctors’ recommendations for treatment, which may include physical therapy, medication, or even surgery if necessary.
Keep track of all medical documentation and expenses related to your injury. These will be important for your workers’ compensation claim.
Rehabilitation and Returning to Work after a Back Injury
Recovery and returning to work after a back injury involve rehabilitation and following your healthcare professional’s guidance. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in strengthening your back muscles, improving flexibility, and restoring your overall physical function.
Your healthcare professional may recommend various treatments such as physical therapy, exercises, and stretching routines tailored to your specific needs. These treatments will help reduce pain, increase mobility, and prevent further injury.
It’s important to be consistent and committed to your rehabilitation program, attending all scheduled sessions and diligently following your healthcare professional’s instructions.
As your strength and flexibility improve, you can gradually reintroduce work-related activities and tasks. Patience and perseverance are key during this process, and with the right rehabilitation plan, you can successfully return to work and resume your normal activities.
Conclusion
Workers’ compensation isn’t just a policy; it’s a lifeline, offering financial protection when accidents happen at work. Workplace injuries don’t have to be an unbearable burden to you.
Remember that with patience and perseverance, you can successfully overcome back injuries and return to your normal activities, stronger and wiser.
Last Updated on by Icy Tales Team