Austell Orthopedics

Workers Comp InjuryAustell, GA

A workers comp injury can disrupt daily life and compromise long-term health if not treated effectively. These injuries occur in the workplace or while performing job-related tasks and are covered under workers’ compensation insurance. Fortunately, orthopedic professionals, including PA-Cs, are trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing these injuries to help patients recover and return to work as quickly and safely as possible.

At Delta Orthopedics, we understand that healing from a workers comp injury can be scary and frustrating. Our team is here to make the process easier, giving you the peace of mind that you need to heal and return to work. We offer workers comp injury treatment in the Austell area. Call our office at 678-439-5216 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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What is a Workers Comp Injury?

A workers comp injury refers to physical harm or illness sustained by an employee while performing their regular job duties. Common examples of worker comp injuries include fractures, sprains, repetitive strain injuries, and conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries are recognized under workers' compensation claims. This employment insurance program is paid for by the employer, which ensures that affected employees may be eligible to receive medical, rehabilitation, and income benefits during their recovery. These benefits are provided until the employee can safely return to their regular duties.

Orthopedic medical specialists diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries commonly associated with workers comp cases. Their expertise ensures that each treatment plan aligns with the physical demands of the patient's unique injury, occupation, and job duties. A personalized approach allows the patient to fully recover from their injury and return to work as safely as possible.

“A workers comp injury refers to physical harm or illness sustained by an employee while performing their regular job duties.”

Benefits of Workers Comp Injury Treatment

For those who have experienced a workers' comp injury, getting treatment from an orthopedic medical provider offers several key benefits. For example, these professionals specialize in treating musculoskeletal injuries, allowing them to provide effective, targeted care based on the specific nature and severity of the patient's condition. Orthopedic professionals create personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient's need to help them recover quickly, regain mobility, and boost the strength they need for their job duties and overall quality of life.

These medical providers also assist with the workers' compensation claims process by providing detailed medical reports that verify the patient's injury, diagnosis, and treatment plan. This documentation helps facilitate a smoother approval process for the patient's worker's compensation claim. Additionally, Jose Marti, PA-C and the rest of our team will help support workers comp injury patients through every stage of their recovery, from the initial diagnosis to follow-up care and their return to work. This compassionate approach to care ensures that each patient has the support they need as they go through their healing journey

“Orthopedic professionals create personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient’s need to help them recover quickly, regain mobility, and boost the strength they need for their job duties and overall quality of life.”

Types of Workers Comp Injuries

An orthopedic doctor can treat a variety of workers comp injuries. Some of the most common workplace injuries include:

  • Acute injuries: These occur from sudden accidents, such as falls or collisions, and may include fractures, dislocations, or sprains.
  • Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs): Conditions like tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome caused by repetitive motions over time.
  • Back and spine injuries: Herniated discs and lumbar strains are common injuries in physically demanding jobs.
  • Joint injuries: Damage to knees, shoulders, or hips due to overexertion or impact.
  • Soft tissue damage: Muscle tears or ligament strains resulting from workplace accidents.

Workers comp injuries are caused by a variety of factors. However, when workers are able to recognize their injuries early, they can get the diagnosis and treatment they need to recover. Seeking care from an orthopedic professional can also help them prevent further complications and the risk of re-injury.

“When workers are able to recognize their injuries early, they can get the diagnosis and treatment they need to recover.”

What to Know About the Treatment Process

During the diagnostic process, the medical provider will use different tests to determine the type and severity of the patient's injury. These may include X-ray, MRI, ultrasound and computed tomography. They will also perform flexibility, stress, and muscle tests to assess the patient's range of motion and identify any issues in their skeletal alignment and muscle function.

Based on their findings, the orthopedic doctor will create a personalized treatment plan that may involve physical therapy, pain relief injections, or regenerative medicine like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. Depending on the treatment plan, the provider can give the patient and their employee a list of modified tasks and a gradual return to work duties as they recover.

Patients will need to provide their workers' compensation details to ensure their treatment is appropriately documented and covered. It is also important for them to stay informed about the claim process and maintain an open line of communication with the employer and healthcare provider.

“Depending on the treatment plan, the provider can give the patient and their employee a list of modified tasks and a gradual return to work duties as they recover.”

At-Home Care

Effective at-home care is an essential part of recovering from a workers comp injury. After the patient begins to get treatment for their injury, they should follow these guidelines:

  • Follow medical instructions: Use prescribed medications, perform recommended exercises, and attend all follow-up appointments to quicken the recovery process.
  • Maintain open communication: Keep the orthopedic specialist informed about treatment progress and any ongoing symptoms.
  • Practice workplace safety: Adopt proper ergonomics and techniques to prevent re-injury. Ask the employer about workplace-specific safety policies to perform job-related duties safely.
  • Stay organized: Keep all medical records and workers’ compensation documentation accessible for future reference and insurance claims.

Comprehensive at-home care complements professional treatment and supports long-term recovery. It also reduces the risk of future complications and re-injuring the affected area.

“Comprehensive at-home care complements professional treatment and supports long-term recovery.”

Find Relief from Workplace Injuries

Do not let a workers comp injury affect your productivity or overall quality of life. The Delta Orthopedics team is here to help. Contact our Austell office today at 678-439-5216 to schedule your consultation and begin your path to recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Workers Comp Injury

Q. What is a workers comp injury?

A. It is an injury or illness sustained while performing job-related duties. This type of injury is covered under workers’ compensation insurance. It covers lost wages and compensates workers for their medical bills and treatments.

Q. How does an orthopedic specialist help with workers comp injuries?

A. Orthopedic specialists diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries. Due to their experience and expertise, these physicians use a personalized treatment plan that can ensure that patients recover efficiently and safely. In turn, the patient can return to work and perform their tasks without the fear of re-injuring themselves.

Q. What types of injuries qualify for workers’ compensation?

A. Fractures, sprains, repetitive strain injuries, and back or joint injuries are common examples. However, it varies from state to state based on their workers' compensation laws and how the injury happened. Call our office for more information.

Q. What should I bring to my first appointment?

A. Bring your workers’ compensation claim details, medical history, and any relevant imaging or documents. Be sure to bring in a list of current medications and supplements. This information helps Jose Marti, PA-C make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Q. How long does recovery take?

A. Recovery time depends on the type and severity of your injury. However, our team will provide a personalized timeline during treatment. Once determined, you can provide this timeline to your employer to ensure a smooth and safe transition back to work.

Definitions

Workers compensation
Insurance covering medical expenses and wage replacement for work-related injuries.
Repetitive strain injury(RSI)
Musculoskeletal disorders caused that are caused by repetitive motions.
Herniated disc
A condition where a spinal disc bulges and irritates surrounding nerves.
Soft tissue damage
Injuries to muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
Ergonomics
The practice of designing workplace tools and spaces to reduce tissue strain.
Musculoskeletal system
The system of muscles, bones, and connective tissues in the body.
Diagnostic imaging
Techniques like X-rays and MRIs to visualize a person’s internal structures.
Pain management
Treatments aimed at reducing discomfort and improving a person’s quality of life.
Modified duties
Temporary job responsibilities adjusted to accommodate an employee’s injury recovery.
Regenerative medicine
Treatments that stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.