What Injured Workers and Employers Need to Know
A workplace injury can impact your ability to work, your daily routine, and the workers’ compensation process.
Whether you’ve been injured on the job or you’re an employer helping an employee access care, understanding what to expect can make the process smoother for everyone involved.
Our team explains how workers’ compensation relates to orthopaedic injuries, when surgery may be recommended, and what injured workers, employers, adjusters, and nurse case managers should know throughout the treatment journey.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides medical benefits and other support to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work.
The system is designed to help injured workers receive appropriate medical treatment while supporting their recovery and return to work.
The specific benefits available and the claims process vary depending on state laws and the circumstances of the injury.
Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Eligibility depends on several factors, including whether the injury or illness occurred during the course of employment and whether the claim is accepted under the applicable workers’ compensation rules.
If you’re unsure whether your injury qualifies, your employer or workers’ compensation representative can explain the next steps.
Common Workplace Injuries That May Require Orthopaedic Care
Many workplace injuries affect the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. An orthopaedic specialist may evaluate and treat conditions such as:
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Hand and wrist injuries
- Hip injuries
- Foot and ankle injuries
- Fractures
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
Early evaluation can help identify the extent of the injury and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
When Should You See an Orthopaedic Specialist After a Workplace Injury?
Some workplace injuries improve with rest and conservative care, while others require further evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist.
If your pain is persistent, your symptoms are getting worse, or you’re having difficulty performing your usual work or daily activities, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Prompt evaluation can help identify the cause of your symptoms and allow treatment to begin as early as possible.
What Injured Workers Can Expect During the Workers’ Compensation Process
Every workers’ compensation claim is different, but the medical process typically involves an initial evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, and regular follow-up appointments. Throughout your care, your orthopaedic team documents your progress and communicates with the appropriate parties as needed to support your recovery.
Your Initial Orthopaedic Evaluation
During your first appointment, your orthopaedic specialist will discuss how your injury occurred, review your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical examination, and review any available imaging or medical records. If additional tests are needed, they may be recommended to help confirm your diagnosis.
Treatment Plans, Work Restrictions, and Follow-Up Care
Your treatment plan will be based on your diagnosis, symptoms, job requirements, and recovery goals. Depending on your injury, treatment may include physical therapy, medication, bracing, injections, or surgery when medically appropriate.
If necessary, your orthopaedic specialist may also provide temporary work restrictions and monitor your progress during follow-up visits. As your condition improves, your treatment plan and work recommendations may be updated to support a safe return to work.
Choosing an Orthopaedic Surgeon for a Workplace Injury
Choosing the right orthopaedic specialist is an important part of your recovery. Look for a surgeon with experience treating work-related injuries who offers both non-surgical and surgical treatment options.
Dr. Oladapo Babatunde is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and Medical Director of the practice. He specializes in the treatment of shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle injuries, providing both conservative care and advanced surgical treatment when appropriate.
Dr. Jason Hymowitz is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon with expertise in sports medicine, reconstructive surgery, and complex injury management. He provides individualized care using the latest surgical techniques and evidence-based treatment approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will workers’ compensation pay for orthopaedic surgery?
If surgery is medically recommended and appropriately authorized as part of an accepted workers’ compensation claim, it is generally covered through the workers’ compensation insurance carrier. Coverage and authorization requirements vary depending on the claim and applicable workers’ compensation rules.
Do I need a referral before scheduling an appointment?
Requirements vary depending on your employer, workers’ compensation carrier, and claim status. Our team can help determine what information or authorization may be needed before your visit.
Can I choose my own orthopaedic surgeon?
The process for selecting a treating physician varies depending on your state’s workers’ compensation regulations, your employer’s policies, and your claim. If you have questions about your options, our staff can help explain the process.
How long does a workers’ compensation claim usually take?
Every claim is different. The timeline depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the treatment required, authorization processes, and your recovery. Your medical team will continue to monitor your progress and provide updated documentation throughout your care.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a photo ID, any available workers’ compensation claim information, your employer’s details, adjuster or nurse case manager contact information, previous imaging or medical records if available, and any authorization or referral documents you have received. Having this information can help make your first visit as efficient as possible.
Need an Evaluation After a Workplace Injury?
If you’ve been injured on the job, the team at City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is here to provide timely orthopaedic care and guide you through the medical side of the workers’ compensation process.
From your initial evaluation to treatment and recovery, we’ll work closely with you and the appropriate parties to help keep your care moving forward.
To schedule an appointment, call one of our New Jersey offices today:
- East Rutherford: (201) 500-9450
- West Orange: (973) 447-3525
- Paramus: (201) 500-1779
You can also visit www.cityorthosports.com to request an appointment online. Our team will be happy to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward recovery.
