Akron Workers Compensation Attorneys

Navigating legal obstacles after a workplace injury can be overwhelming. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to assist. With unwavering dedication and specialized expertise, our team is committed to advocating for the rights of injured workers. We ensure you receive fair treatment and proper compensation, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Filing a Worker’s Comp Claim for Work-Related Facet Syndrome and Mental Health Therapy

Facet syndrome is a progressive and painful disorder of the spine, primarily degenerative in nature. Work-related duties can exacerbate this condition, leading to increasing pain and potentially resulting in disability for affected workers. Understanding the intricacies of facet syndrome, recognizing its symptoms, and knowing when to seek legal assistance are crucial for employees navigating workers’ compensation claims.

What is Facet Syndrome?

Facet joints are small joints connecting adjacent vertebrae, providing stability while allowing movement in the spine. Over time, the cartilage on these joints can weaken and deteriorate, leading to facet joint syndrome or facet disease. This deterioration results in significant back pain and discomfort.

Causes of Facet Disease

Facet syndrome is often attributed to wear and tear, commonly associated with aging. However, other factors contribute to its development, including:

- Repetitive trauma and overuse injuries (e.g., delivery personnel repeatedly bending and lifting, assembly line workers performing tasks with lumbar spine flexed).
- Traumatic work accidents.
- Obesity.
- Other spinal conditions such as spondylolisthesis.

Recognizing Symptoms of Facet Joint Syndrome

Diagnosing facet joint syndrome can be challenging as it mimics other spinal disorders and often coexists with other back conditions. Key symptoms include:

- Radiating pain.
- Headaches.
- Weakness or numbness in extremities.
- Tenderness and sensitivity in one area of the spine.
- Stiffness and reduced flexibility.
- Difficulty bending, standing straight, and/or walking.

When facet joints are injured or worn, everyday movements such as walking, running, bending, sitting, and twisting can become painful.

Types of Available Treatments

Treatment for facet joint syndrome varies depending on severity. Options include:

Surgical Treatments:
- Fusion surgery.
- Facet rhizotomy.

Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Anti-inflammatory medication.
- Pain medication.
- Hot or cold packs.
- Back-specific exercises.
- Physical therapy.
- Cervical traction.
- Back braces.
- Strength training.
- Posture corrections.
- Avoiding movements that worsen symptoms.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent recurring back problems and effectively manage the condition. If you suspect your facet disease is work-related, inform your supervisor immediately and document your care and treatments to support a workers' comp claim.

The Consequences of Failing to Receive Treatment

Untreated facet joint problems can lead to chronic pain and hinder daily activities such as working, exercising, and basic movements. Complications like arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and bone spurs may develop, accompanied by chronic pain.

If you experience pain and stiffness in the neck or back, worsening pain with movement, stiffness after prolonged positioning, or headaches and shoulder pain, seek a medical examination promptly.

Proving a Workers’ Comp Claim for Facet Syndrome

Proving that your facet syndrome is work-related can be complicated. Employers' insurance companies might argue that the condition is degenerative and not work-related or that symptoms are due to other health issues. If you face difficulties in proving your claim, consult an attorney. Proper legal counsel, medical professionals' testimonies, and adequate evidence can demonstrate the link between your injuries and work duties.

When to Hire a Workers' Comp Attorney

Not all work injuries necessitate a lawyer. Simple cases where you fully recover and all medical bills are paid may not require legal assistance. However, certain situations do warrant hiring an experienced workers' comp lawyer, such as:

- Serious work injuries requiring surgery and leading to permanent problems or restrictions.
- Being fired after a work injury.
- Permanent work restrictions that your employer cannot accommodate.
- Injuries caused by another person’s negligence.
- Disagreement with a functional impairment rating after a permanent work injury.

If you experience delays or denials in medical care, late checks, or anticipate permanent problems, it is time to contact a work comp lawyer.

Workers' Compensation for Mental Health Therapy

Mental health conditions related to employment, such as PTSD, can also qualify for workers’ comp. PTSD often follows traumatic events and can lead to anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. Severe work injuries or witnessing horrific accidents can trigger such conditions.

Mental Health Therapy Claims:
- Require a medical diagnosis and proof that the condition is work-related.
- Can be difficult to prove, especially if symptoms develop long after the traumatic event.

If you struggle to get compensation for mental health therapy, legal assistance can help. With proper evidence and medical corroboration, workers' compensation should cover mental health therapy costs.

Getting Legal Assistance In Akron

Navigating the complexities of Iowa workers' compensation laws can be daunting, especially during the recovery process from a workplace injury. Seeking guidance from a seasoned Akron Workers' Comp attorney is invaluable in ensuring your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Legal professionals play a pivotal role in gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and advocating for your interests throughout the claims process. Don't risk missing out on the compensation you deserve – enlist the support of a qualified attorney to navigate the complexities with confidence.

The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 641-792-3595.