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Bouncing back from a back injury

On Behalf of | Feb 9, 2017 | Workers' Compensation

If you’re one of the many Oklahoma workers who have suffered a back injury on the job, you are likely well aware of the various challenges associated with recovery. Even a minor lower back injury can cause substantial pain and keep you from being able to carry out the most basic daily tasks. One mistake many recovering back injury victims make is trying to do too much too soon.

On one hand, it’s understandable that you want to get back to work as soon as possible. On the other, rushing recuperation may wind up worsening your condition, thus making your recovery time even longer. Some back injuries can be so debilitating that you can barely move at all, much less attempt your normal routine. Often, such injuries require immediate medical attention, possible medications to reduce pain, lots of rest and help from family members or others in recovery.

Hopefully, your employer fulfills the necessary requirements for reporting your injury in a timely manner to expedite the process for you to receive workers’ compensation benefits.

Practical tips for optimum healing

In addition to fulfilling your own responsibilities in the claims process, there are several things you can do at home to increase your chances of a swift and full recovery. As you might already have learned, one wrong move is enough to bring tears to your eyes when trying to get back on your feet after a serious back injury. Keeping the following in mind may be helpful:

  • Get needed rest: Second only to seeking immediate medical attention after you’ve been hurt on the job, taking time to rest and heal is crucial toward successful recovery.
  • Chiropractic and therapy help: Unfortunately, many back-related injuries create long-lasting (even chronic) conditions that necessitate assistance from physical therapists and/or chiropractors to help manage pain and restore full movement.
  • Use tools: Objects often used in exercise regimes can sometimes help those who have suffered back injuries. Foam rollers or balls can be placed in the injured region to provide support and light pressure as you roll back and forth.
  • Alternative therapies: In recent years, many people have returned to an ancient form of healing known colloquially as “cupping,” which originated in Egypt. This process uses glass cups that have been heated and applied to the skin to create suction to stimulate the flow of energy.

Applying ice to an injured area regularly and avoiding foods known to incite inflammation in the body are other tangible means to support healing. As you seek the help you need and follow the recovery plan designed to provide maximum support, you may have other concerns regarding your workers’ compensation benefits and how to obtain the funds you need to pay medical bills and make ends meet at home while you’re unable to work.

How to best approach filing for your workers’ compensation claims

In a perfect world, an injured worker would fill out necessary forms, an employer would follow through and all needed benefits would be provided in a prompt and thorough fashion. In reality, the process is typically complicated and workers often run into obstacles along the way, such as employers denying claims or clerical mistakes in paperwork. Stress is definitely not conducive to the healing process.

Therefore, it may help to allow a workers’ compensation attorney to act on your behalf so you can focus all your attention on getting well while your attorney navigates the system to obtain all benefits to which you may be entitled.

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