Workers Comp Help
Workplace Back Injury Requiring Fusion
I was injured while working as a nurse in 1999 at the age of 28.I am married and have two young children. I have worked since I was 14 years old. My injury consisted of a ruptured disk at L5-S1 and a bulging disk at L4-L5. I tried pain management and PT. with no results and then I had to have a spinal fusion.
Nine months after my surgery the neurosurgeon said I give you 10% disability and you can return to work light duty. He never once asked me what I was physically able to do.I was and still am having major back pain and leg numbness. The pain increases according to my activity. I have not received a check from workers comp in over a year and I have been denied social security.
My husband only brings home 1200 dollars a month but we do not qualify for public aide. Times are really hard. I was referred to another doctor by the surgeon and WC paid for the visit and a procedure the new doctor said I was not at MMI and said I was eligible for temp disability benefits until he was able to complete the other procedures and surgeries that could relieve my pain and problems.
Workers comp at this time is not agreeing to pay for these procedures and I have prescriptions that have been on hold at the pharmacy for six days now that they have not paid for. I am represented by an attorney that I have an appt. with soon. I know I am not the only person with these problems I just wish the laws would change to help the injured workers.
I cannot wait until the day I am able to return to work.