Posted in Wisconsin Workers Compensation Related News
Getting injured on the job can be a real pain in the neck. Literally! If you’ve been injured on the job you might be asking, “What’s the best way to treat pain from a work accident?” In today’s article we will cut through the clutter and get right to the chase with the best way to treat pain from a work accident.
A chiropractor offers will see hundreds of cases each year involving people injured from a work accident. While no 2 injuries are the same, and every treatment approach should be tailored to the individual needs of the injured party, there are some general guidelines and best practices to keep in mind when recovering from a work accident.
Report All Work Injuries with Your Supervisor and File a Formal Incident Report As Soon As Possible!
It’s sad but happens all too often – An injured worker comes in my office complaining of pain after being injured on the job. They don’t want to be a bother to their supervisor and are afraid if they file a report, they will lose their job. So…. they “tough it out.” They keep working while injured, they never file a formal complaint, and several months go by before they can’t stand the pain any longer. Unfortunately, work injuries sometimes take time to develop and symptoms may not progress until days or even weeks after the original injury. Unless a formal incident report was filed near the time of the accident, your legal options may be limited. My advice, no matter how small the injury may seem, file a formal incident report with your supervisor and be evaluated by a physician as soon as possible following a work accident. This will ensure every possible chance to make a complete recovery and protect your legal options as well. Don’t risk a lifetime of pain and suffering and your claim being denied. Report all work injuries and file a formal incident report with your supervisor as soon as possible!
Follow the Advice and Recommendation of Your Doctors!
There is no shortage of ways to be injured on the job. The type of treatment will depend of your exact type of injury. Most large employers have established relationships with doctors’ offices and urgent care clinics to evaluate injured workers hurt on the job. These clinics and doctors should treat you ethically and fairly, however, they don’t always have your best interest at heart. Be cautious if you’re instructed to return to work before you feel ready. If something doesn’t “seem right” it probably means you need to look for another doctor to evaluate and manage your injuries. I would typically recommend you consult a good attorney to help you navigate to maze of worker’s compensation, claim’s adjustors, HR directors, and doctors appointment to make sure your legal rights are protected.
As far as pain relief after a work injury – be patient. Recovery takes time and will not happen overnight. The best treatment approach is typically non-invasive and relies on as little medication as possible. Muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medication, and steroids are usually prescribed for 2-4 weeks after an orthopedic injury to the spine or joints. Conservative care with chiropractic, therapy, and acupuncture can also aid in the recovery process and speed up your return to full duty work responsibility. If 6-8 weeks of conservative care and medication haven’t rendered a full recovery, advanced imaging like an MRI or CT scan may be required. Depending on the results, injections, nerve blocks, more therapy, continued medication and surgery may be required. At the end of the day, your recovery will be a process and you will need a good team of caring physicians to guide you on the road to recovery. Follow the advice and recommendations of your doctor and attorney to ensure a full recovery and adequate compensation as allowed by law.
