If you’ve been injured at work, it’s essential to understand your rights and treatment options. At Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics, we provide high-quality care for work injuries, including pain management, neurology, orthopedic surgery, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.
With multiple locations across metro Atlanta, our top-rated workplace injury doctors are here to help you at every step of your recovery.
Here, we answer common workplace injury questions.
What Should I Do if I’m Injured at Work in Georgia?
If you’re injured at work in Georgia, you should take the following steps immediately:
- Report the Injury: Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Verbal notice may suffice initially, but it’s best to document the injury in writing.
- Seek Medical Care: If the injury requires immediate attention, seek emergency treatment. For non-emergencies, your employer should provide a list of approved medical providers (Panel of Physicians) from which you can choose.
- Follow Medical Advice: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery and to protect your claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of medical visits, symptoms, and any communication with your employer about the injury.
How Long Do I Have to Report a Workplace Injury in Georgia?
In Georgia, you should report your workplace injury to your employer within 30 days of the incident. Failing to report within this timeframe may jeopardize your workers’ compensation benefits. It’s always best to report your injury as soon as it happens, even if it seems minor, as symptoms can sometimes worsen over time.
What Are Some of the Most Common Workplace Injuries?
Some of the most common workplace injuries include:
- Back and Neck Injuries: These are often caused by lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions, or accidents.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls, slips, and machinery accidents often lead to fractures.
- Sprains and Strains: These injuries, often to the back or shoulders, result from overuse or improper lifting techniques.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This repetitive strain injury is common in jobs that require constant use of hands and wrists, such as typing or assembly work.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Falls and accidents involving machinery can cause concussions or traumatic brain injuries.
- Joint Injuries: Knees, shoulders, and hips are often injured due to repetitive motion, sudden impacts, or awkward movements.
Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics provides comprehensive care for a wide range of workplace injuries, helping employees recover and return to work safely.
How Can Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics Treat Work Injuries?
At Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics, we offer a range of treatments to address workplace injuries and support recovery:
- Pain Management: Our team uses a range of techniques to manage pain effectively, from medication to targeted therapies, ensuring comfort during the healing process.
- Injections: For conditions like joint pain, inflammation, or nerve-related pain, we offer injections to reduce pain and swelling.
- Neurology Services: For workplace injuries involving the brain or nervous system, our neurology team provides specialized care, assessing and treating nerve damage or related symptoms.
- Orthopedic Surgery: When injuries require surgical intervention, our experienced orthopedic surgeons offer minimally invasive and advanced surgical options.
- Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors can provide adjustments to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support recovery, especially for back and neck injuries.
- Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists design personalized rehabilitation plans to strengthen muscles, improve mobility, and accelerate recovery.
- X-Ray Imaging: We use advanced imaging to diagnose and monitor injuries, ensuring accurate assessments and tailored treatment plans.
By offering a comprehensive suite of services, we’re able to support patients through every stage of recovery.
How Can Physical Therapy Help Recovery After a Work Injury?
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery by helping injured workers regain strength, flexibility, and function. Physical therapists work with patients to design exercises and treatments that improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore the body’s normal movement patterns. Additionally, physical therapy can help prevent re-injury by strengthening muscles and improving posture and body mechanics, ultimately aiding in a quicker and more complete recovery.
How Can a Chiropractor Help After a Workplace Injury?
Chiropractic care is particularly beneficial for injuries involving the spine, neck, and musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation.
Chiropractors at Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics provide treatments designed to restore proper alignment, relieve pressure on nerves, and enhance your body’s natural healing process. This can be especially helpful for employees dealing with repetitive stress injuries or back pain caused by lifting, twisting, or prolonged sitting.
What Types of Work Injuries May Require Orthopedic Surgery?
While many workplace injuries can be treated non-surgically, some injuries may require orthopedic surgery to fully heal. These include:
- Fractures and Dislocations: Severe bone fractures or joint dislocations may need surgical intervention to ensure proper alignment and healing.
- Torn Ligaments or Tendons: Injuries to the ACL, rotator cuff, or other ligaments and tendons may require surgery to restore stability and function.
- Spinal Injuries: Herniated discs, spinal fractures, or nerve impingements may sometimes need surgical treatment to relieve pressure and restore mobility.
- Chronic Joint Pain: In cases where conservative treatments aren’t effective, joint surgery may be recommended for long-term pain relief and improved function.
Orthopedic surgery is generally recommended when it is deemed the most effective option for full recovery and pain relief.
What Benefits Does Georgia Workers’ Compensation Offer?
In Georgia, workers’ compensation provides several essential benefits for injured employees:
- Medical Benefits: Coverage for all necessary medical treatments, including doctor visits, hospitalization, physical therapy, medication, and surgery.
- Wage Replacement: Temporary disability benefits cover a portion of lost wages if you are unable to work or can only work in a limited capacity.
- Rehabilitation Services: Some cases may qualify for vocational rehabilitation if you need training to return to work.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: If an injury results in permanent impairment, you may be eligible for permanent disability benefits.
How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Most employees injured on the job are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia. Georgia requires businesses with three or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
To qualify, the injury must have occurred while you were performing work-related duties. Independent contractors may not be covered, so it’s important to understand your employment status. If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can help clarify your rights.
How Much Wage Replacement Can I Receive if I’m Unable to Work?
If your injury prevents you from working, Georgia’s workers’ compensation system generally provides two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state. The weekly benefit rate can vary, so it’s a good idea to verify the current cap on benefits. In Georgia, these benefits are provided for up to 400 weeks for temporary total disability, though additional rules apply for cases of permanent disability.
When Will I Start Receiving My Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia are subject to a seven-day waiting period. If your injury keeps you out of work for more than seven days, you should begin receiving benefits shortly after. If you are out of work for 21 days or more, you can receive benefits for the initial seven-day waiting period.
Can I Get Workers Comp Benefits While on Light Duty?
Yes, if you can return to work but are limited to a lighter or lower-paying job, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits. These benefits provide compensation for a portion of the difference between your pre-injury wage and your reduced earnings.
What Should I Do if My Workers’ Compensation Claim is Denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation. A workers’ compensation lawyer can guide you through the appeal process, gather evidence, and advocate for your right to benefits.
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers Comp Claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, you must file a workers’ compensation claim within one year from the date of your injury. It’s crucial to report your injury to your employer promptly and seek legal advice if you’re unsure about the deadlines or requirements. Delaying a claim can jeopardize your eligibility for benefits, so taking swift action is key.
How Do I Choose the Right Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
Choosing the right workers’ compensation lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some key qualities to look for:
- Experience in Workers’ Compensation Cases: Look for an attorney with a strong track record handling workers’ compensation claims in Georgia.
- Communication Skills: Your lawyer should be accessible and responsive. Clear communication is essential.
- Negotiation Skills: An experienced workers’ comp lawyer should be a strong negotiator, able to advocate effectively for maximum benefits, especially if there are disputes.
- Experience With Appeals: While many cases settle, some require a hearing before the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation. An experienced can represent you in an appeal.
- Compassion and Understanding: Navigating a workplace injury can be stressful. Look for a lawyer who is committed to protecting your rights and supporting you throughout the process.
At Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics, we can refer you to experienced workers’ compensation attorneys who meet these criteria, ensuring you have the best possible representation for your case.
Contact Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics Today
If you’ve experienced a workplace injury, Georgia Spine & Orthopaedics can provide the care you need for a successful recovery. With x-rays, pain management, neurology, orthopedic surgery, chiropractic care, and physical therapy, our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. We can also connect you with experienced workers’ compensation attorneys.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you on your path to recovery.
