The importance of the central nervous system to your overall bodily function cannot be overstated. Your nerves serve as the highway through which messages travel from your brain to every part of your body, allowing your musculoskeletal system to operate and triggering your senses to take in the world around you. Unfortunately, if you’re injured in the workplace, these nerves can become compromised, getting in the way of your ability to live life to the fullest.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we’re proud to accept workers’ compensation for the treatment of spinal injuries and other injuries in which nerve damage has been sustained. Several types of common workplace injuries can result in nerve damage, including the following three:
1. Brachial Plexus Injury
If your line of work frequently requires you to lift and throw heavy objects, you may be at an increased risk for neck and shoulder injury in general. But did you know that you may be at risk for nerve damage in the neck and shoulder as well? Overuse injuries and trauma sustained at the workplace can result in damage to the brachial plexus nerve, causing symptoms of pain and numbness that can be difficult to treat.
If you sustain one of these injuries at work, you’ll need the help of an experienced shoulder specialist to restore your full range of motion and safely return to your job.
2. Back and Spinal Injuries
Back and spine injuries are some of the most common and most dangerous risks workers face while on the job. Between heavy lifting, repetitive movement, and the prospect of slipping, tripping, or falling, your spine can be affected by a wide range of work-related injuries that can result in nerve damage, including:
- Sciatica
- Herniated discs
- Back sprains and strains
If you’re struggling with a work-related back injury and are experiencing symptoms of nerve damage, it’s important to consult with an orthopedic spine specialist for nerve damage treatment as soon as possible.
3. Hand and Wrist Injuries
Your hands and wrists were made to help you articulate your upper extremities and feel your way around your world. Because of this, these areas are made up of three extremely important and sensitive nerves: the median nerve, the ulnar nerve, and the radial nerve. When your hands or wrists are overused, used repetitively, or crushed while at the workplace, these nerves can become pinched or sustain serious damage that can make performing your daily tasks difficult.
One of the most common hand/wrist conditions workers experience is carpal tunnel syndrome, which happens when the muscles of your wrist become swollen from overuse and pinch your median nerve. While many of these cases can be treated nonsurgically, a wrist and hand surgeon near you can determine if carpal tunnel syndrome surgery is the right course of action for you.
Keep Your Nervous System Healthy and Safe at Work
No matter what type of nerve injury you’ve sustained on the job, it’s important to receive the appropriate care and rehabilitation to be able to return to work safely and with confidence. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our specialists; Dr. Bernstein, Dr. Schiffman, and Dr. Yaffe are dedicated to help you make a full, effective, long-term recovery from your injury.
If you are suffering from a work-related injury, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact our workers’ compensation department that is committed to your total recovery. Our services include a dedicated Work Conditioning Program designed to help you return to work safely and with confidence. Ready to get started? Request an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is peripheral nerve injury?
Peripheral nerve injuries are any type of damage or trauma sustained to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. These injuries can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, and loss of function in different parts of the body.
Can workers’ compensation cover spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries?
Yes, workers’ compensation can cover spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury sustained in the workplace. It is important to report any accidents or injuries immediately to your employer and seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
How can I reduce my risk of workplace nerve injuries?
To reduce your risk of sustaining a nerve injury in the workplace, make sure to follow safety protocols and use proper equipment when lifting or performing repetitive tasks. Take breaks and perform stretches to prevent overuse injuries, and always report any symptoms
