Back Injuries Attorneys in Wichita, Kansas

Back injuries are an unfortunate part of the workplace. A study from 2016 revealed that 38.5% of physical injuries were related to back issues, including sprains, tears, and hernias. In some cases, workers needed to take days away from their place of employment. In other cases, much more recovery time was needed. 

At Slape & Howard, we know what going through a debilitating injury is like. That is why we stand side-by-side with injured workers seeking fair compensation in Wichita and the rest of Kansas. Our workers' compensation attorneys assist clients throughout the state of Kansas as they look to get their lives back on track. 

Causes of Back Injuries in the Workplace

Back injuries are a common type of workplace injury caused by a variety of factors. The following situations illustrate possible causes of back injuries at work: 

• Manual lifting and handling. Lifting heavy objects or improperly handling objects can cause back injuries. Poor lifting technique and overexertion are common causes of back injuries in the workplace. 

• Repetitive motions. Repeating the same motions over and over again can lead to strain on the back muscles and cause injury over time. This situation is common in jobs that require repetitive bending or twisting, such as assembly line work. 

• Sitting for long periods. Jobs that require prolonged sitting, such as office work, can lead to back injuries due to the pressure on the lower back and spine. 

• Poor posture. Poor posture while standing or sitting can cause strain on the back muscles and lead to injury. 

• Falls. Falls are a common cause of back injuries in the workplace, especially from heights or on slippery surfaces. 

• Vehicle accidents. Workers who operate vehicles as part of their job may be at risk of back injuries in the event of an accident. 

Most causes of back injuries at work are preventable with proper training and equipment. Employers must ensure workers have the tools and skills to avoid potentially debilitating back injuries. 

Effects of Back Injuries

A back injury at work can have both short-term and long-term consequences. Here is a look at the effects of back injuries at work: 

Short-term Effects  

• Pain and discomfort. Back injuries can cause immediate pain and discomfort, making it difficult for individuals to perform their duties. 

• Decreased mobility. Back injuries can limit an individual’s mobility, making it difficult to perform tasks that require bending, twisting, or lifting. 

• Loss of income. If a back injury prevents an individual from working, they may experience a loss of income. 

• Increased medical expenses. Treatment for back injuries can be costly, including doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, and other treatments. 

Long-term Effects 

• Chronic pain. Back injuries can lead to chronic pain that may persist for months or even years after the injury. 

• Reduced mobility. Severe back injuries can permanently reduce an individual’s mobility and ability to perform physical tasks. 

• Depression and anxiety. Long-term back injuries can cause individuals to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. 

• Increased risk of future injuries. Once an individual has suffered a back injury, they are at an increased risk of future injuries due to weakened back muscles and a compromised spine. 

Keep in mind that a workplace injury can significantly impact a person’s health, work performance, and quality of life. Seeking compensation with the help of an attorney is a crucial part of recovering fully. 

Filing a Workers Compensation Claim in Kansas

Employees with a workplace injury, such as a back injury, can file a workers' compensation claim to seek help to recover from their injuries. The claims process works as follows: 

• Employees must first report the injury to their employer, including the date and details of how the injury occurred. The notification must be in writing. 

• Then, injured workers must seek medical treatment as soon as possible, including emergency room visits. 

• The next step is to file a workers' compensation claim submitted through the employer’s insurance company.  

• The workers' compensation claims process involves a medical examination to determine the extent of the injuries sustained. Workers need to be truthful about their injuries’ nature. 

• Following the medical evaluation, the insurance carrier decides on a financial compensation settlement to aid with treatment and recovery. 

• Once the worker is back to full health, they may return to the workplace. 

It’s important to note that employees have the burden of proof in a workers' compensation claim. In other words, workers must prove the back injury is workplace-related. That is why getting the help of an experienced back injury attorney can help injured workers successfully prove their injuries and the extent of their injuries. 

Employees must have three years to file a workers' compensation claim from the suspected date of the injury. Following that three-year window, making a successful workers' compensation claim may be difficult.