Workplace neck injuries arise from repetitive stress and one-time accidents. Some people mistakenly believe they are immune to workplace injuries because they work an office job. Neck injuries can occur in both active and sedentary job positions. When a workplace injury strikes, injured workers have access to worker’s compensation benefits. These benefits provide wage replacement and medical care coverage.
Why Neck Injuries Are So Common
The neck features vertebrae that run from the base of the skull to the upper torso. Because of its wide range of motion, lack of protection and support of the head, injuries are common.
The cervical vertebrae are not as protected as other sections of the spine. Falls, repetitive stress injuries, and blunt trauma can all result in neck injuries. Some neck injuries heal themselves with time and rest. Other neck injuries need surgical intervention.
3 Neck Injuries That Can Occur in the Workplace
There are a few different reasons neck injuries can occur on the job. When these injuries occur, prompt treatment protects the health and stability of the spinal cord so permanent damages do not occur.
- Whiplash sometimes occurs on the job because of vehicle accidents. Whiplash occurs when the neck is forcefully thrown forward and back. The rapid back and forth motion causes damage to the soft tissues. This type of injury can result in severe pain and other complications. When an accident occurs with a company vehicle, the injured worker can file a workplace injury claim.
- Repetitive stress injuries are also common. This type of injury can occur in a variety of types of employment. Prolonged over-extension of the neck can lead to soft tissue injuries and cervical disc damage. There are six cervical discs in the neck. When one becomes herniated or ruptures, severe pain often results.
- Blunt force trauma is also common when it comes to neck injuries. Slip and falls and falling items can result in both head and neck injuries. Extensive damage of the cervical vertebrae can cause damage to the fragile spinal cord, resulting in permanent paralysis.
The simple act of operating a computer day after day can lead to injuries in the neck. Neck injuries can occur due to the duties any job requires. Those suffering from a workplace injury need to report their injuries as soon as possible to their employer.
Are Neck Injuries Covered Under Worker’s Compensation?
Each state has its own worker’s compensation laws that govern this program. Although some states do not consider the neck to be a scheduled body part, injured workers can still receive worker’s compensation benefits if their neck injury leads to shoulder and arm problems that prevent them from working.
Worker’s compensation covers 100% of all medical costs related to treatment for the injury. It also provides wage replacement while the injured worker is recovering and unable to work. Those who require surgery for their neck injury could receive partial or permanent disability benefits, depending on the nature of the injury.
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Worker’s compensation covers 100% of all medical costs related to treatment for the injury. It also provides wage replacement while the injured worker is recovering and unable to work. Those who require surgery for their neck injury could receive partial or permanent disability benefits, depending on the nature of the injury.
Immediately Report a Workplace Injury
Some workplace injuries are a big pain in the neck and they can leave behind serious damages. Once an injury occurs, it needs to be reported right away. When reported, the employer and their insurance company have 21 days to decide on approval.
Even if the worker’s compensation claim results in denial, the injured worker has the right to seek an appeal and can even hire a lawyer to help them pursue their rightful benefits. Worker’s compensation laws were put into place to protect injured workers and ensure they receive wage replacement and medical coverage benefits.