The Impact of Workplace Back Injuries

Back and spinal injuries can have life-altering consequences for workers. If you’ve sustained a back injury at work, knowing the next steps is essential to securing the compensation you deserve. These injuries can occur in many workplace scenarios, often leaving victims with long-lasting pain and financial challenges.

With the guidance of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney, you may be able to recover financial benefits through a legal claim. In some situations, injured workers may also be eligible to file a third-party lawsuit in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits.

At E&L, LLP , we understand the challenges that back injury victims face. Our dedicated legal team is here to help you explore your options and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim.

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(213) 213-0000

Common Types of Workplace Back Injuries

While back injuries can happen in any job, those involving physical labor or repetitive tasks are at higher risk. Below are some of the most common categories of back injuries that workers experience:

  1. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and strains, are among the most common back injuries. These occur when ligaments, muscles, or tendons are overstretched or torn, often resulting from:

  • Lifting heavy objects
  • Car accidents
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Being struck by objects
  • Sudden twists or overexertion

Symptoms of Soft Tissue Injuries:

  • Stiffness or muscle spasms
  • Tightness in back muscles
  • Reduced range of motion

Soft tissue injuries often require extended recovery periods and significant medical treatment. If you’ve sustained such an injury at work, seek a medical diagnosis immediately and contact our legal team for assistance in pursuing compensation.

  1. Degenerative Back Conditions

Physical labor can accelerate the progression of degenerative back conditions, such as:

  • Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of spaces in the spine caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, or thickened ligaments.
  • Degenerative disc disease: Weakening of the spinal discs, leading to pain, fractures, or herniation.
  • Arthritis: Erosion of cartilage in the spine’s joints, resulting in pain and stiffness.

Symptoms of Degenerative Back Conditions:

  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
  • Weakness in the extremities

These conditions can cause chronic pain and mobility issues, requiring treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. If your work has exacerbated a degenerative back condition, you have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits.

  1. Spinal Fractures

Severe impacts, such as falls or vehicle collisions, can fracture the vertebrae in the spine. These fractures may require bracing, traction, or surgery, depending on their severity. Victims of spinal fractures often experience significant and lasting back pain, especially with movement.

  1. Herniated Discs

Herniated spinal discs occur when the soft center of a disc pushes through its tough outer ring, often causing nerve compression. This condition can result in:

  • Intense back pain
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Muscle weakness

Mild cases may heal with rest and medication, but severe herniated discs may require surgical intervention.

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Steps to Take After a Workplace Back Injury

If you’ve suffered a back injury on the job, follow these steps to protect your health and secure the compensation you’re owed:

  1. Seek Medical Treatment

Your health should be your top priority. Visit a doctor or emergency room immediately following your injury. Be sure to inform the medical provider that your injury is work-related so they can document this in your records—this documentation is vital for your workers’ compensation claim.

  1. Report the Injury to Your Employer

Notify your employer or supervisor about your injury as soon as possible. Delayed reporting can result in a denied workers’ compensation claim.

  1. Complete the Necessary Paperwork

Your employer will provide you with workers’ compensation forms to complete. Ensure all forms are filled out accurately and within the deadlines set by your state. Keep a copy of the paperwork for your records.

  1. Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Filing for workers’ compensation can be a complicated process, especially if your claim is denied. A skilled attorney at E&L, LLP can guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you appeal denied claims if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I appeal a denied workers’ compensation claim?
The appeals process often involves additional medical examinations, mediation sessions, and possibly a hearing before a judge. Our attorneys will advocate for your case, presenting evidence and testimony to overturn the denial.

What does workers’ compensation cover?
Workers’ compensation benefits can include:

  • Medical treatment and care
  • Lost wages and income
  • Temporary or permanent disability benefits
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Death benefits for families of workers who suffered fatal injuries

Let E&L, LLP Help You

At E&L, LLP , we believe that injured workers deserve justice. If you’ve sustained a back injury at work, you don’t have to navigate the claims process alone. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.

CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000

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