Can a Construction Worker Receive Workers’ Comp for a Herniated Disk Caused by Repeated Lifting?
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), back injuries account for 25% of all non-fatal construction injuries. While common and often very painful, back injuries can occur suddenly or develop and worsen over a period of months or years. Whatever the case, if a work-related back injury impacts your ability to work and perform daily tasks, you may be entitled to benefits under the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act.
What Causes Back Injuries?
Day in and day out, union tradespeople throughout northern Illinois lift heavy materials, often requiring repetitive motions like bending, twisting and reaching. Over time, these mechanical motions and hard physical labor can cause stiffness, inflammation and other more serious back issues.
How Does a Herniated Disk Injury Affect My Ability to Work?
One of the most common types of back injuries is a ruptured disk, or herniated disk. It can cause significant pain, leaving you unable to lift objects, stand or even walk. For many workers, dealing with this type of significant health issue means substantial time off from work for doctor appointments, evaluations, pain management or potentially surgery.
While symptoms can vary, often times a herniated disk causes:
- Muscle weakness
- Back and/or neck pain
- Tingling or numbness in the arms or legs
- Loss of mobility or normal function
- Sciatic pain in the legs
I Injured My Back at Work, What Do I Do Next?
If you’ve suffered a herniated disk from repetitive motion or heavy lifting on the job, it’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the workers’ compensation process. A knowledgeable attorney will help you gather the proper documentation and medical evidence to demonstrate the connection between your back injury and your job, which is critical to ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve to cover any medical bills, lost wages or costs associated with rehabilitation.
Workers’ compensation is a complex system to navigate on your own. If you or someone you know has suffered a herniated disk as a result of their job responsibilities, contact the Rockford area’s leading workers’ compensation team at Black & Jones Attorneys at Law at (815) 967-9000 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.