Atkins Workers Compensation Attorneys

The legal complexities after a workplace injury can be overwhelming. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to help. With relentless dedication and specialized skills, our team is committed to advocating for injured workers' rights. We ensure fair treatment and proper compensation, so you can concentrate on getting better.

Facet syndrome is a progressive and painful disorder of the spine. While it is primarily a degenerative disorder, work-related duties can contribute to the syndrome and cause an increasing amount of pain (and eventually disability) for workers.

What is facet syndrome?

Facet joints are small joints that connect two adjacent vertebrae. There are two facet joints at each level of the spine, which gives the spinal column stability while still allowing for movement.

The cartilage on the joints can weaken and break down over time. This is known as facet joint syndrome, or facet disease. The condition continues to develop as the facet joints deteriorate, which causes a significant amount of back pain and discomfort.

Causes of Facet Disease

Facet syndrome is caused by wear and tear. This is often attributed to aging, but that’s not always the case. Injury and overuse can play a role, too.

Some of the other causes and contributing factors include:

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

Recognizing the Symptoms of Facet Joint Syndrome

It’s often hard to recognize the symptoms of facet joint syndrome – at least initially – because it can mimic other spinal disorders. Oftentimes, patients with facet disease also have other back conditions, making it difficult to diagnose and to distinguish one condition’s symptoms from the other.

Some of the symptoms doctors may look for 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

Consequences of Failing to Receive Treatment for Facet Syndrome

Facet joint problems can cause chronic pain and make it impossible to perform normal, beneficial daily activities, such as:

- Working
- Exercising
- Basic reaching and bending

If the condition isn’t treated, patients may experience certain complications like arthritis or degenerative joint disease. Bone spurs may form, too. Chronic pain can accompany these complications, making the condition very troubling for sufferers.

How to File a Workers' Comp Claim for Facet Syndrome

If you believe your facet disease is work-related, you’ll need to tell your supervisor immediately and begin documenting your care and treatments in order to file a workers’ comp claim for compensation. However, proving a claim can be quite complicated. Your employer’s insurance company might claim that the injury is degenerative and had nothing to do with work. Also, because the syndrome can mimic other problems, the insurance company or employer might argue that your symptoms are related to your other health issues or are psychosomatic.

If you’re having difficulty proving your workers’ comp claim, contact an attorney as soon as possible. With proper legal counsel, medical professionals’ testimonies, and adequate evidence, you should be able to effectively demonstrate the link between your injuries and your work duties.

Understanding Shoulder Injury Compensation under Iowa Work Comp Law

In Iowa, the compensation for shoulder injuries under workers' compensation law depends upon various factors. The following considerations play a crucial role in determining the compensation:

- Permanent Impairment Rating: The impairment rating, although seemingly low, impacts compensation. It's generally based on the lack of range of motion in your shoulder.
- Permanent Work Restrictions: These are more critical than the impairment rating. The type of medical care received, including surgeries or other treatments, also affects compensation.
- Educational Level, Age, and Earnings History: These personal factors are considered in assessing compensation.
- Ability to Return to Work: If you can't return to your previous job due to your injury, you may be entitled to higher compensation.

The insurance company may send a letter detailing payments made and planned payments for impairment ratings. However, before agreeing to any settlement, it's crucial to consult with a qualified Iowa workers' compensation attorney to ensure fair compensation.

Injured Workers Bill of Rights

Iowa Law has recognized the needs of its injured workers since 1913. The law requires every employer to obtain workers' compensation insurance or be approved as a self-insurer to cover their workers. However, understanding your rights is essential to ensure fair treatment. Here are the first four of the ten basic rights you have under Iowa law:

1. Payment of Medical Care Including Mileage: Your employer and/or their insurance company are generally responsible for providing medical care and treatment. You're entitled to reimbursement for mileage expenses related to medical visits.
2. Money for Permanent Disability: If your work injury causes permanent disability, you're entitled to compensation based on the nature and extent of your disability and your pre-injury earnings.
3. Right to Refuse Medical Care: You have the right to refuse any medical procedures or care recommended by the company doctor.
4. Weekly Benefit Checks While You Recover: While you're unable to work due to your injury, you'll receive weekly benefit checks to replace your usual earnings.

Understanding these rights can help you navigate the workers' compensation process and ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to.

Getting Legal Assistance In Atkins

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 Atkins 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.