Back injuries are some of the most common and most painful issues reported by workers across Illinois. A herniated disc can leave you unable to stand, walk, or lift without discomfort, and for many workers, it means missing significant time from the job. If your herniated disc occurred due to your work, or your job aggravated an existing condition, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under Illinois law.
At Illinois Workers’ Comp Lawyers, we’ve helped many Illinois workers file claims for back injuries, including herniated discs. These injuries can be complex to prove, especially if symptoms appear gradually. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and how to navigate the claims process properly.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Your spine is made up of vertebrae separated by small, cushion-like discs. These discs help absorb shock and allow flexibility. When one of these discs becomes damaged, either through wear or sudden trauma, it can bulge or rupture, pressing on nearby nerves. This condition is known as a herniated disc or a slipped disc.
Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the disc, but common signs include:
- Back or neck pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Sciatic pain radiating down the leg
- Loss of mobility or function
Herniated discs are frequently caused by heavy lifting, twisting motions, falls, or repetitive stress on the spine, all common in warehouse, construction, factory, and nursing jobs.
Are Herniated Discs Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?
Yes, in many cases. If your herniated disc occurred while performing work-related tasks or if your job aggravated a pre-existing spinal condition, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois.
You don’t need to prove that your employer was at fault. The key factor is whether your injury was caused by or related to your job. If your employer or their insurer denies your claim by arguing the injury was age-related or pre-existing, a thorough medical evaluation and legal guidance can help push back on that decision.
What Benefits Can You Receive for a Herniated Disc?
If your workers’ comp claim is approved, you may be eligible for the following benefits:
- Medical coverage: Including doctor visits, imaging (MRI/CT scans), physical therapy, pain management, and surgery if necessary
- Temporary total disability (TTD): Wage replacement if you’re unable to work while recovering
- Permanent partial or total disability: If the injury causes long-term damage or functional limitations
- Vocational rehabilitation: Support for retraining or transitioning to a less physically demanding job
- Mileage reimbursement: For travel to medical appointments related to your back injury
Herniated discs can be serious and long-lasting. Don’t rush to accept a settlement without understanding your long-term needs and medical outlook.
Common Challenges in Herniated Disc Claims
Back injuries can be difficult to prove, especially when symptoms don’t appear immediately after the incident. Employers and insurance carriers may try to argue that:
- The injury wasn’t related to your job
- You had a pre-existing back condition
- There’s insufficient documentation or medical support
- You delayed treatment or didn’t follow your doctor’s instructions
This is why it’s essential to report the injury right away and seek medical care as soon as symptoms begin. Let your doctor know that the pain started at work or worsened because of your job duties. A clear connection between your work and the injury helps support your claim.
Steps to Take After a Herniated Disc at Work
If you suspect a herniated disc injury related to your job:
- Report the injury to your employer immediately. Illinois law gives you 45 days to do this, but sooner is always better.
- Seek medical attention and be clear about the work-related nature of your symptoms.
- File a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission by submitting an Application for Adjustment of Claim.
- Document everything, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and missed workdays.
Having an experienced legal team on your side can help you stay on track and avoid common claim mistakes.
Contact Illinois Workers’ Comp Lawyers Today
If you’re dealing with a herniated disc after a workplace accident, or if years of repetitive movement on the job have caused or worsened back problems, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois.
At Illinois Workers’ Comp Lawyers, we understand how painful and limiting spinal injuries can be. Our team is here to guide you through the process and advocate for the compensation you need to recover.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and fight for the benefits you deserve.
