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Work-related neck injuries are a significant concern for many Iowans, especially in physically demanding professions. From cervical strains to severe fractures, understanding these injuries, their treatments, and your rights under Iowa workers' compensation laws can help you navigate this challenging time. This guide will outline common workplace neck injuries, their symptoms, treatments, and steps you can take to protect yourself.
Common Causes of Work-Related Neck Injuries
Neck injuries at work often result from physical trauma or repetitive strain. Common causes include:
- Falls: A traumatic fall can lead to severe injuries like fractures.
- Repetitive Motions: Jobs requiring prolonged looking up or down or frequent turning motions can cause cumulative damage.
- Accidents: Collisions involving vehicles, heavy machinery, or equipment.
- Overhead Work: Occupations like electricians or warehouse workers are at higher risk.
Common Neck Injuries
1. Cervical Strains
A cervical strain occurs when the muscles and ligaments in the neck are overstretched. Symptoms may include:
- Neck stiffness.
- Neck Pain while moving.
- Muscle spasms.
Treatment:
- Conservative Care: Physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest.
- Chronic Conditions: Pain management, trigger point injections, or radiofrequency denervation for prolonged cases.
2. Herniated or Bulging Discs
These injuries occur when spinal discs protrude, often pressing against nerves and causing:
- Radiating pain into the shoulders or arms.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands.
Treatment:
- Initial Steps: Physical therapy and medications.
- Advanced Care: Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) to reduce inflammation.
- Surgery: Cervical fusion surgery may be necessary for severe cases to relieve nerve pressure
3. Cervical Fractures
A neck fracture involves a break in one or more cervical vertebrae. Severe cases may result in spinal cord damage or paralysis.
Treatment:
- Mild Cases: Immobilization using braces or casts.
- Severe Injuries: Surgical intervention with rods, screws, or cervical fusion.
4. Conditions Requiring Cervical Fusion
Cervical fusion neck surgery is often required for injuries like:
- Fractured vertebrae.
- Severe herniated discs.
- Misalignment of the spine (spondylolisthesis).
The procedure involves stabilizing the spine using bone grafts or implants, with a recovery period involving bracing and physical therapy.
Recognizing Signs of Neck Injuries
Early identification is critical. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or radiating pain in the neck or shoulders.
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands.
- Loss of neck mobility.
- Swelling or bruising in the neck area.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after a workplace incident, seek immediate medical attention.
1. Report the Injury: Notify your employer as soon as possible about the work-related incident.
2. Request Medical Care: Your employer is responsible for providing access to medical treatment under Iowa workers’ compensation laws.
3. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your symptoms, medical appointments, and conversations with doctors.
4. Follow Medical Advice: Attend all appointments and follow prescribed treatments.
Workers’ Compensation for Neck Injuries in Iowa
Under Iowa law, injured workers are entitled to compensation covering:
- Medical Bills: Full coverage for necessary treatments.
- Lost Wages: Partial replacement of income during recovery.
- Disability Benefits: Assistance if you cannot return to your previous job or earn the same wages.
When to Consult an Iowa Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
While you don’t need a lawyer to file for workers’ compensation, an experienced attorney can help maximize your claim’s value. They can assist in:
- Ensuring you receive proper medical treatment.
- Challenging unfair denials by insurance companies.
- Pursuing additional benefits like vocational retraining or permanent disability.
Contacting a Work Injury Lawyer in Iowa
This is just a partial list of things that you should avoid doing while pursuing a workers comp. claim in Iowa. To learn more about Iowa work injuries including how you can avoid 7 Deadly Mistakes then request a copy of Iowa Workers’ Compensation Guide- An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries. Our book includes the Iowa Injured Workers’ Bill of Rights and much more.
We offer our book at no cost to you because we have seen too many hardworking medical providers and other Iowa workers get taken advantage of by greedy insurance companies. There is no risk and your information will remain confidential so claim your copy now before you make a costly mistake in your work injury case. Finally, you can learn about Iowa work injury laws in the comfort of your own home. If you need immediate assistance, call us at 641-792-3595 (phones are answered 24/7) or Contact Us Here.
