Can You Get Workers’ Compensation for Arthritis?

Yes, you can get workers’ compensation for arthritis if it’s work-related or aggravated by your job duties. However, you must prove the connection between your work and your arthritis. This can be difficult without the help of an Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer on your side.

A lawyer will know what the insurers and the workers’ compensation board must confirm before awarding your benefits. You can use the compensation to pay for your medical care and to cover some of your lost wages while you recover.

What Is Work-Related Arthritis?

Work-related arthritis is a form of joint inflammation that develops or worsens due to job activities. It can affect various body parts, including hands, wrists, knees, and back. This condition often results from repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or prolonged periods in certain positions.

If you’re experiencing joint pain and stiffness that seems to worsen with your job duties, consider the possibility of work-related arthritis. Many workers don’t realize that their arthritis could be work-related. 

If you can show that your job duties caused your symptoms, you can use the workers’ compensation system for your arthritis and get paid for medical care, wage replacement, and more.  If it is to the point of a disability, you could also receive disability benefits.

How Can I Prove My Arthritis Is Work-Related?

You’ll need to demonstrate a clear link between your job duties and your arthritis symptoms. To strengthen your case, keep detailed records of your symptoms, when they occur, and how they relate to your work activities. 

If you suspect your work caused your arthritis, report your condition to your employer as soon as you suspect it might be work-related. Reporting starts the workers’ compensation process, and you need to report it within 30 days of noticing your symptoms.

A medical evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider authorized by your employer is the next step. They can assess your condition, review your work history, and provide professional opinions on the connection between your arthritis and your job.

What Benefits Can I Receive for Work-Related Arthritis?

If your arthritis claim is approved, you’ll be eligible for several types of workers’ compensation benefits. These can include coverage for medical expenses related to your arthritis treatment, including doctor visits, medications, and physical therapy.

You might also receive wage replacement benefits if your arthritis prevents you from working or requires you to work reduced hours. The amount depends on your wages and whether you need to rest completely or can return to a light-duty position.

In some cases, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation if your arthritis prevents you from returning to your previous job. This benefit can help you train for a new position that can accommodate your arthritis.

Can Workers’ Compensation Cover Pre-Existing Arthritis?

If you had arthritis before starting your current job, you might still be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The key is demonstrating that your work activities have significantly aggravated your pre-existing condition.

For example, if your arthritis was manageable before, but your job duties have caused it to worsen to the point where it interferes with your ability to work, you may have a valid claim. Older workers can have this happen, especially if they switch jobs to something more physical later in life.

Winning a workers’ compensation case for a pre-existing condition is much more difficult. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you build a strong case for aggravation of a pre-existing condition.

What if My Workers’ Compensation Claim for Arthritis Is Denied?

Don’t lose hope if your initial claim is denied. Many workers’ compensation claims are initially rejected but are later approved on appeal. The appeal process typically involves presenting your case at a hearing before the workers’ compensation board.

During the appeal, you can present additional evidence to support your claim. This might include more detailed medical records, expert testimony, or witness statements from coworkers who can attest to your job duties and symptoms.

While many workers’ comp cases are awarded successfully without needing a personal injury lawyer, you will want one if denied. They can review your case for problems, tell you how to fix them and present your new evidence during the hearing.

Seeking Help for Your Work-Related Arthritis Claim

Dealing with work-related arthritis can be physically and emotionally challenging. If you believe your job has caused or worsened your arthritis, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

You can get workers’ compensation for arthritis, but proving work-related arthritis can be complicated without help.  At John Foy & Associates, we understand workers’ compensation law and what the insurers look for in arthritis claims. 

Contact our work injury attorneys in Atlanta today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the benefits you deserve. Our experienced team is ready to be your advocate and fight for your rights as a worker.