Workers' Compensation for Musculoskeletal Disorders

Musculoskeletal disorders often result from prolonged, strained working postures. Fortunately, the workers' compensation system provides recovery options to employees.

2012-11-21

November 21, 2012 (Press-News.org) Musculoskeletal disorders affect muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, nerves and other soft tissues. Moreover, these issues are exacerbated by certain work conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, musculoskeletal disorders make up approximately 33 percent of injury and illness expenses in the industry.

Musculoskeletal issues result in chronic or short-term joint pain. For example, arthritis is an occupational disease and musculoskeletal problem, which is the leading cause of work disability.

Arthritis occurs when the cartilage surfaces between bones is deteriorated, resulting in bone-on-bone contact. The CDC reports that in 2007, the annual cost of rheumatic conditions was approximately $128 billion. This included $47 billion in lost earnings.

While musculoskeletal decline is associated with age, the CDC notes that not all older workers (50 years and older) experience joint pain. Workers at risk for such musculoskeletal issues tend to be in work positions that have high physical demands. Once deterioration has begun, it may take time before an older worker can return to work.

Fortunately, employers are beginning to support workplace exercise programs, which prevent joint pain and musculoskeletal issues. To avoid musculoskeletal conditions among workers, employers should utilize workplace equipment that reduces force, repetition and poor work postures.

Workers' compensation benefits

If your job has taken a toll on your body and you suffer from a musculoskeletal disease, there are legal options of recovery.

Workers' compensation laws mandate that employers carry insurance policies that cover employees' work-related injuries. The coverage is generally available regardless of employer fault or the employee's preexisting physical condition. Injuries that are accelerated or aggravated by poor working conditions are covered under this program. Workers' compensation includes payment for medical treatment, permanent injuries and in some cases, lost wages (all linked work-related injury).

The basic requirements for a common workers' compensation claim are the following:
- The employee suffers from a work-related injury.
- The resulting disability prevents the employee from working (or reduces his or her ability to work).
- The employee has provided notice of the injury to his or her employer.

If you have committed yourself to working and have suffered an injury at the expense of your job, you deserve to be compensated for your harm. However, this area of law is very complex, and a lawyer can assist you with assessing your situation. If you suffer from an occupational musculoskeletal disease, you should speak with a workers' compensation attorney today.

Article provided by The Law Firm of Janice M. Greening, LLC
Visit us at www.greening-law.com

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