Degenerative disc disease is a painful condition that may develop over time. In some cases, it results from work-related activities. In Georgia, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if you suffer from degenerative disc disease due to your job.
Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease
The spine experiences wear and tear over time. When this occurs, a person may receive a diagnosis of degenerative disc disease (DDD). Symptoms of this condition include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder blade pain
- Tingling, numbing, or weakness in the arms or fingers
- Leg weakness
- Bladder or bowel control issues
- Difficulty walking
Sometimes, degenerative disc disease is a natural result of the aging process. However, various work-related activities may cause or exacerbate the condition. Long-term wear and tear can cause minor injuries that may develop into more significant problems over time, including degenerative disc disease.
Eligibility for Workers’ Comp Claims
Does your job involve physical labor? Work activities like lifting heavy items and engaging in repetitive movements can contribute to degenerative disc disease.
Most employers in Georgia must carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your condition resulted from your work, you may be able to seek benefits by filing a degenerative disc disease workers’ comp claim.
Georgia employees may file workers’ compensation claims when they sustain injuries or develop medical conditions due to their work. To be eligible for benefits, you must prove that your degenerative disc disease resulted from your job. This task is not as easy as it may seem.
Degenerative disc disease claims can be particularly challenging because DDD is a condition known to occur with age. Insurance companies may dispute your claim by arguing that your condition is not work-related. Consulting an experienced workers’ comp attorney is crucial to ensure you are not denied the benefits you are entitled to by law.
Tips for Filing a Strong Workers’ Compensation Claim
Here are some tips to follow if you believe you have a valid workers’ compensation claim:
- Report your condition to your employer as soon as you know it.
- Review the information from your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company to ensure you understand all filing deadlines and other requirements.
- Discuss your claim with a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan completely.
- Don’t post anything on social media indicating your condition isn’t as serious as you suggest (such as a picture of you playing sports).
It’s wise to let your attorney handle gathering medical evidence, filing your workers’ compensation claim, and negotiating with the insurance company to achieve the best possible result.
How the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. Can Help
The workers’ compensation attorneys at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. can help you in a variety of ways when seeking benefits for degenerative disc disease. We will:
- Review your case to confirm you’re eligible for benefits.
- Gather medical evidence to show your condition is the result of work activities.
- Complete and submit claim paperwork by the required deadlines.
- Handle all communications with your employer and their workers’ compensation insurance company.
- Represent you during appeals if your claim gets denied.
Degenerative disc disease can drain your energy and cause chronic or even permanent disability. At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., an Albany workers’ compensation lawyer can help you through the process of applying for benefits so you can get the treatment you need to recuperate. Learn more by contacting us today for a free case review.
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