Workers' Compensation Back Injury in Redding, CA

A back injury is one of the most common workplace injuries, and when it happens, workers often find themselves facing a series of challenges, from pain and discomfort to navigating the complex workers' compensation system.

Whether you’ve hurt your back while lifting a heavy object or from repetitive motions, knowing your rights and understanding the workers' compensation process is crucial.

Common Causes of Back Injuries at Work

Back injuries are often caused by various factors in the workplace. The nature of your job, combined with repetitive movements, lifting techniques, or hazardous work environments, can all contribute to back pain and injuries.

Lifting Hazards

• Improper Lifting Techniques: Bending at the waist to lift heavy objects can strain the muscles in your back, leading to sprains and strains.
• Lifting Heavy Objects: Frequently lifting heavy items, especially those that exceed safe weight limits, can result in significant injury over time.
• Awkward Lifting Positions: Lifting items above your head or twisting while lifting can also cause sudden injuries to your back.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

• Assembly Line Work: Repeating the same motion over and over without sufficient rest can put a strain on your muscles and joints, increasing the risk of injury.
• Typing and Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods or poor posture while typing can cause misalignments in the spine.
• Driving: Long hours of driving, especially in an uncomfortable seat, can lead to back pain.

Falls

• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Wet floors, cluttered workspaces, and uneven flooring can lead to unexpected falls, which are common causes of back injuries.
• Falls from Heights: Workers who perform tasks that involve heights are at a higher risk of serious back injuries from falling.

Vibrations

• Operating Machinery: Using power tools or heavy machinery that causes vibrations can damage the spinal discs over time, leading to chronic pain.

Types of Back Injuries

Back injuries can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that interferes with daily activities. Understanding the type of injury you have can help guide treatment and recovery.

Muscle Strains

A muscle strain occurs when the fibers of the back muscles are overstretched or torn. This is often caused by improper lifting or sudden movements.

Ligament Sprains

Ligament sprains involve the stretching or tearing of the ligaments that support the spine, typically caused by twisting motions or sudden impacts.

Herniated Discs

When the soft, jelly-like center of a disc in your spine ruptures or leaks out, it can press against nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

Spinal Fractures

Spinal fractures are breaks or cracks in the vertebrae, typically caused by falls or severe accidents. These injuries can result in permanent damage and require surgery.

Seeking Medical Attention

It's essential to seek medical attention as soon as you notice symptoms of a work-related back injury. Delaying care could worsen the injury or prolong recovery.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure that the injury is properly addressed. If you wait too long to seek medical attention, the condition could worsen, leading to chronic pain or permanent disability.

Documentation of the Injury

Documenting your injury is an essential part of the workers' compensation process. Be sure to keep records of any medical treatment you receive and notify your employer as soon as possible.

Incident Reports

Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible, and make sure they file an incident report.

Witness Statements

Having coworkers or witnesses document what happened can strengthen your case.

Photographs of the Injury Site

If applicable, photographs of the injury can provide important evidence to support your claim

When to Consult with an Attorney

Certain situations may warrant consulting with an attorney to help with your workers’ compensation claim.

Difficulties with Your Claim

When your claim is denied or challenged by the insurance company, an attorney can help you navigate the appeals process.

Complex Medical Issues

In cases of severe or complicated injuries, legal advice can help ensure that you get the appropriate compensation.

Potential for Long-Term Disability

If you’re facing long-term or permanent disability, an attorney can ensure you get the benefits you deserve.

Discrimination or Retaliation

If you face retaliation from your employer for filing a claim, a workers' comp attorney can protect your rights.

Contact Leep, Tescher, Helfman and Zanze: Experienced Workers' Compensation Attorneys

For injured workers in Redding, California, Leep, Tescher, Helfman & Zanze (LTHZ Law) has built a long legacy of fighting for workers' rights.

Our commitment to workers’ compensation cases stems from our decades of experience and the dedication of our founders, Ben Helfman and Brian Zanze. With a focus on personalized service, LTHZ ensures that workers receive the compensation they deserve while navigating the complex workers’ compensation process.

Book us today.