Workers Comp Help
Back Injury From Lifting At Work
On March 16, 2001 I picked up 40lbs of paper, a normal daily activity for me. But that day I must have twisted or stood up the wrong way because I immediately felt sharp stabbing pains beneath my shoulder blades.
I reported the accident to my employer and was instructed to go to the prompt care facility. It is now July 6, 2001 and the only treatment I have received is trying different medications for the pain and not finding any that will dull the pain and I have been going to physical therapy, which has not helped.
I finally got an X-ray done in the middle of June. I was sent to a chronic pain management doctor who felt my back and ordered more physical therapy.
The pain has increased and the only comfort I am able to receive is weekly visits (sometimes more then once ) to the local emergency room for a shot of pain medication. I now have an appointment to see a specialist in the bone and muscle field.
I try to go to work but the problem for me is sitting down and lying down, and my job is a 50 minute drive one way. The pain is so bad at night that I can't sleep. I have not been able to go on any camping trips with my family because I can't sit for a long period of time.
None of the medication I have tried has worked, and now I have nothing to use. I tried to get another general practitioner doctor who might have other ideas for medication but the insurance company refused my request.
I am unsure of my rights and think maybe I should hire a lawyer, though I am not looking for any kind of settlement money. I just want to know what is wrong with my back and how it can be fixed.