Work Injuries that are a Pain in the Neck
April 12, 2019
It is not unusual for someone to develop a slight ache here or a minor pain there, after working day after day at a physically demanding job. Oftentimes, workers start to feel some of those aches and pains in their neck. These may start out as a relatively minor ache, then progress to a debilitating pain that prevents them from being able to do their work.
Whether an injury is caused by a sudden accident, or by repetitive motions done over time, if the injury is work-related, it should be covered by Workers’ Compensation.
Common Causes of Neck Injuries
Neck injuries can be caused by a range of factors, including the following:
- Repetitive Motions: When workers must do the same motions over and over, day after day, it can cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort. Even simple things like sitting in an uncomfortable, non-ergonomic chair can affect your neck.
- Slip and Falls: If the floor surface is wet, or slippery, or there is debris that causes a tripping hazard, the impact of a fall can cause neck injuries.
- Falling Objects: If an object from above falls and hits a worker, it can cause a neck injury.
- Car Accidents: Workers whose job responsibilities include driving can suffer serious neck injuries if they are involved in a car accident.
- Stress: Stress can cause the muscles around the neck and upper back to become tense, which can put the neck out of alignment.
Common Symptoms of Neck Injuries
Depending on the nature of the neck injury, workers may experience some, or all, of the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Stiffness, making it difficult or painful to turn the head in either direction
- Pain in other parts of the body, like the back or shoulders
Treatment Options
There are a wide range of therapeutic treatment options available to treat neck injuries. A medical professional can recommend the best option, based on the severity of the injury.
The following are examples of some treatment options:
- Pain medications
- Physical therapy
- Surgical stabilization and correction
- Therapeutic massage
- Acupuncture
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Hydrotherapy
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
If the injury occurred at work, Workers’ Compensation will cover the following expenses:
- Medical: All medical expenses related to the injury will be covered by Workers’ Compensation, including hospitalization costs, prescription medications, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: A percentage of a worker’s weekly wages are covered, which will go into effect the seventh day of missed work.
- Permanent Partial Disability: If an injury causes a worker to be out of work for a long period of time, this provides an ongoing weekly benefit for a specified period of time. The employee could also choose to receive a lump sum payment.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Workers’ Compensation provides job training in the event that the worker cannot return to their job.
- Death Benefits: If the injury was fatal, the surviving family members may be able to collect death benefits.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Workers Who Suffer Neck Injuries
If you suffered a neck injury at work, contact the Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at your earliest convenience. We understand how neck injuries can compromise your quality of life, making it difficult to do even the simplest task. Our dedicated team will walk you through the claims process and ensure that you receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online. We represent clients in Baltimore and throughout Maryland.
