An injury at work can be overwhelming, not just physically but emotionally and financially. Whether it is a lifting injury that leaves you unable to bend, a repetitive strain that has slowly worsened, or an accident that happened in an instant, a workplace injury disrupts both your life and your livelihood. Knowing the basics of your rights and your recovery options can make the road back smoother.
Common Types of Work-Related Injuries
Workplace injuries take many forms and happen in every industry. Some of the most common include:
- Back and neck injuries from lifting, bending, or long hours at a desk (see lower back pain)
- Repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and shoulder pain
- Slips and falls that cause sprains, fractures, or head injuries
- Overexertion injuries from pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy loads
- Postural strain from long computer sessions or awkward positions
- Motor vehicle accidents for people who drive for work (see auto accident injuries)
These injuries range from sudden trauma that needs immediate attention to problems that build up over weeks, months, or years. However your injury happened, you deserve proper care and a real chance to recover. Read more about work-related injuries.
Understanding Your Rights as an Injured Worker
In Missouri, as in other states, workers' compensation laws exist to help employees who are hurt on the job get medical care and wage benefits, and they protect workers from retaliation for filing a claim. The details depend on your state, your employer, and your situation. In general, workers' compensation can involve:
- Medical care for the injury: in Missouri, the employer or its insurer generally directs which providers are authorized for workers' compensation care, so ask your employer before you start treatment if you plan to use that coverage.
- Protection from retaliation: your employer may not fire you or discriminate against you for exercising your rights under workers' compensation law.
- Wage replacement: if your injury keeps you from working, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits.
- Returning to work: many injured workers return to their regular job, or to modified duty, once their provider clears them.
Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible, and in writing. Workers' compensation laws set deadlines for giving notice, and prompt reporting protects your ability to use benefits.
For questions about your specific rights, the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation and attorneys who practice workers' compensation law are good sources. This article is general information, not legal advice.
How Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Care Support Recovery
Chiropractic and rehabilitation care are conservative options for many work-related musculoskeletal injuries, such as back, neck, and shoulder strains. Rather than relying only on medication, they focus on how the injured area is moving and functioning. Care may help with:
- Easing pain and stiffness through chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapy
- Restoring motion to stiff joints and the spine
- Rebuilding strength and function through physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises
- Reducing the risk of re-injury with ergonomic guidance and body mechanics education
- Reducing reliance on medication, as part of a broader plan with your physician
Guidelines for low back pain include spinal manipulation and exercise among the non-drug treatment options, and staying as active as you comfortably can generally works better than bed rest.
Dr. Kowin Casey, DC, has owned and operated clinics that specialized in the rehabilitation of work and auto injuries, and KC Wellness and Physiotherapy offers auto and work injury care.
Navigating the Workers' Compensation Process
Filing a claim can feel intimidating. The general steps look like this:
Step 1: Report your injury
Tell your supervisor or HR department right away, even if the injury seems minor. Put the report in writing and keep a copy.
Step 2: Get evaluated
See a healthcare provider promptly. If you plan to use workers’ compensation, ask your employer or its insurer which providers are authorized before you start treatment.
Step 3: File your claim
Your employer or its insurer should give you the forms and information you need. Complete them carefully and on time.
Step 4: Follow through with care
Keep your appointments and do your home exercises. Consistent care supports recovery.
Step 5: Keep records
Save notes about your injury, treatment, expenses, and any communication with your employer or its insurer.
If your claim is denied or disputed, you may be able to appeal, and a workers' compensation attorney can advise you.
Preventing Future Workplace Injuries
Recovering from your current injury comes first, but preventing the next one matters too. Many workplace injuries can be prevented with good body mechanics, ergonomic changes, and awareness:
- Lift with good technique: bend at the knees, keep loads close to your body, and avoid twisting
- Set up your workstation with the monitor at eye level and the keyboard at elbow height (see desk ergonomics tips)
- Take regular breaks to stretch and change position, especially if your job involves repetitive tasks
- Build core strength and flexibility through regular exercise (see core strength and spinal health)
- Address minor aches early, before they turn into bigger problems
- Talk with your employer about hazards or equipment changes you need
A chiropractor can offer ergonomic and body mechanics guidance suited to the demands of your job. For desk workers, read why your desk job can hurt.
Taking the First Step Toward Recovery
If you have been hurt at work, you do not have to navigate recovery alone. Understanding the basics of your rights, getting appropriate care, and taking an active role in your recovery are the most important steps back to your job and the activities you enjoy.
Chiropractic and rehabilitation care offer a conservative approach to many work-related injuries. Whether you are dealing with a recent injury or a problem that built up over time, getting it evaluated early can make recovery smoother.
Do not let worries about paperwork keep you from getting the care you need. Report the injury, get evaluated, and ask questions. We accept all major insurance plans. Call our office at (913) 424-2410 to confirm your coverage before your visit. New patients can download the intake forms ahead of the first visit, or call our office at (913) 424-2410.
