Workers’ Comp Back Injury Claims: What You Need To Know

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You’re not alone. Our Michigan workers’ comp lawyers have been called the best in the state, and we pride ourselves on providing you with care, trust, and responsiveness.

Frequently asked questions about a back injury at work in Michigan & workers’ comp

On the job injury laws in Michigan are designed to provide wage loss benefits and medical treatment for injuries that occur when you’re on the job. But there are some common injuries that are routinely disputed by employers and insurance companies. Below our attorneys are discussing a back injury at work and workers’ comp in Michigan and what to watch out for.

For help now, call us at (844) 345-0952. You can also fill out our free consultation form.

Q. I suffered a back injury at work, what do I have to do for a workers’ comp claim?


A. It is critical that you report any back injury at work to your employer when it happens and seek appropriate medical care. Many of these workers’ comp cases are won and lost based upon the history that is given at the time of injury.

You should tell your doctor how you hurt yourself at your job and about any new symptoms from this injury and/or other injuries.

If you have questions, consult with one of our attorneys. You can receive free advice that could mean the difference between a lifetime of medical care and nothing.

Q. How do employers and insurance companies handle workplace injury claims for spinal injuries?


A. Spinal cord injury workers’ comp claims can be some of the most difficult cases in Michigan. It’s common for employers and insurance companies to avoid accepting responsibility for these types of injuries because of the potential for lifetime wage loss and medical treatment.

These injuries cause controversy because they are hard to diagnose and treat. It is often difficult to pinpoint the exact source of pain and can be even more difficult to prove that a workplace accident was the cause.

This is especially true if you have a preexisting condition. You may find yourself in court having to prove that you actually got hurt.

Q. How do spinal injuries affect employees?


A. Spinal injuries can be devastating when they result in permanent restrictions and a loss of wage earning capacity. A person who has always done heavy lifting might now find themselves limited to a sit down job.

This transition can be nearly impossible without proper retraining and other vocational help. Some individuals never return to the workplace because of chronic pain. But don’t lose hope. There are other careers out there, and many ways that people with spinal cord injuries can recover and improve.

Q. If I need surgery for my back injury at work, is that covered under workers’ comp?


A. Surgery may also be required. Recovery from surgery can take months or years. Common surgeries include laminectomy, discectomy and fusion. These surgeries can cost over $50,000 and require extensive follow-up care.

Even after a complete recovery from surgery, work restrictions may still be required.

Q. What happens if I suffered a herniated disc on the job?


A diagnosis of a herniated disc is good evidence that you suffered a workplace injury. A herniated disc refers to a problem with one of the cushions between the vertebrae that makes up your spine. You can suffer a herniated disc from lifting heavy objects or from bending and twisting while lifting. A herniated disc is sometimes referred to as a disc protrusion, slipped disc or ruptured disc.

A herniated disc can also irritate nerves resulting in pain, numbness and weakness in the leg. This is called radiculopathy. It’s very important to see a doctor if you develop these symptoms.

Q. My doctor says my injury isn’t related to my job, now what?


A. Insurance company doctors will often tell you that your pain from your back injury at work is just “arthritis” or part of getting older. Many people have degenerative disc disease with little to no symptoms. You should always seek a second opinion from your own doctor who has your best interests at heart.

Q. I’ve been sent to an IME, now what?


A. Employers and insurance companies often send people to their doctors for an “independent” medical examination (IME). The law requires that you attend this medical examination or forfeit your right to workplace injury benefits.

These “independent” insurance doctors are selected by your employer or an insurance company, and they will often say that you are not as injured as you claim, in order to save the employer/insurance company money.

It is possible that your workplace injury benefits will be disputed based upon this report. Make sure that you’re treating with your own doctor, who has your best interests in mind.

Contact out attorneys for a free consultation

Just because employers or insurance companies dispute back injury at work claims does NOT mean you should accept their decision.

Call us at (844) 345-0952, or fill out our free consultation form. The call and the advice are free. We will make sure you receive all of the benefits you’re entitled to, so you can recover from your injury.

Get Help From our Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyers Today

You’re not alone. Our Michigan workers’ comp lawyers have been called the best in the state, and our clients love how they’re treated with care, respect, and responsiveness. We will give you the time you need, we will explain your legal rights, and we will always treat you with respect.

Our workers’ compensation and Social Security disability lawyers always put your needs first. Get to know your legal team.

Our attorneys post regularly about common issues related to workers’ comp, including common injuries, settlement calculations, laws, and more.

Injured? It’s Time to Get Some Answers

Don’t let the insurance adjuster push you around. Request your free consultation today.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Our attorneys post regularly about common issues related to workers’ comp, including common injuries, settlement calculations, laws, and more.

Our workers’ compensation and Social Security disability lawyers always put your needs first. Get to know your legal team.