Chiropractic Gaithersburg MD Trusts for Work Related Injuries
Work related injuries are common across various industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that three out of 100 workers were injured on the job in 2014. Of them, a third missed at least one day of work as a result of their injuries.
Individuals who experience a work injury should seek treatment immediately to prevent long-term complications that may plague the rest of their lives. Chiropractic treatment, massage therapy, and other types of wellness services can greatly accelerate the healing process.
Individuals who get injured at work may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. However, failure to report the accident on time can cause the claim to be denied. Read on for insights about chiropractic treatments and receiving benefits for injuries sustained at work.
Types of Work Related Injuries
Chiropractic treatment is often one of the best options for work related injuries. It can speed up the recovery process by relieving pain and correcting misaligned joints. It can also prevent a reoccurrence of the injury in the future. In addition, chiropractic treatments are not invasive and are often more affordable than other forms of medical care. Here are common work related injuries that can be treated through chiropractic care:
- Neck strain, sprain, and joint problems
- Back problems
- Pain, tingling, and numbness in the hands
- Headaches due to poor posture, joint dysfunction, or muscle tension
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Inflammation of tendons
- Swelling of the bursa in the knee, elbow, or shoulder
While some of these injuries may not be serious, others can cause severe pain and affect your performance at work if they are not treated immediately. Consider visiting a chiropractor for adjustment and treatment if you suffer these and any other injuries while on the job. Check first with your state’s workers compensation board to verify that all of your care providers, including your chiropractor, are approved for your benefits plan.
When to File a Workers Compensation Claim
Individuals who experience work related injuries are entitled to seek workers compensation benefits for their medical recovery. Report the accident to your employer or manager immediately to avoid missing the deadline for benefits. It’s important to file a report regarding your injury even if it doesn’t feel serious. Here’s why:
- A seemingly minor injury can result in further complications down the road, and this can cause a strain on one’s finances if their insurance doesn’t cover the medical expenses.
- Failure to immediately report an injury can be viewed as a sign that it was not serious and this can hurt the claim.
- Delayed symptoms are common in work related injuries and the victim may not feel any pain or discomfort until days or weeks after the injury.
During the treatment period, one should ensure that the chiropractor documents the symptoms, their severity, and the nature of therapy administered. It is also important for them to state the necessity of the treatment and outline the costs incurred for it. Keep copies of this documentation as you will need to submit it with your workers compensation claim.
Seeking Legal Representation
Workers compensation claims are not usually easy, particularly when the employer tries to deny liability. The employer may downplay the injuries or even question the necessity of the treatment. It is crucial to seek legal representation to avoid under compensation or denial of the claim. A workers compensation attorney can help collect the necessary evidence from the chiropractor and build a solid case. If needed, they can also hire an expert to substantiate your injuries and support the medical treatment provided.
A work injury can change the course of one’s career. It can be very helpful to get chiropractic care immediately to ensure that the injury is addressed before it can worsen. A workers compensation lawyer can help protect your rights for fair compensation for the recovery of your injury.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Pain & Arthritis Relief Center for their insight into treatments for work related injuries.
