Knee Injuries On The Job In North Carolina

The knee is the largest joint in the human body, and it’s important in a lot of daily activities. Unfortunately, knees can get hurt in a variety of ways, especially at work. Furthermore, many people with previous knee injuries will tell you that once an injury happens, knees never seem to completely heal. That’s why it’s so important for workers of all kinds to understand how knees get hurt at work, what to do if they are hurt, and how to ensure they get the compensation and benefits they deserve.

Chronic Knee Pain from Work

When people are young and healthy, their knees can withstand a lot. However, overexertion, age, or a combination of these things can leave people with knee pain. Many people with strenuous jobs may have knee pain after some time. This pain can make it difficult to walk, stand, and, most importantly, work. 

Chronic knee pain may have many causes, but the most common causes are arthritis and deteriorating cartilage. Overworking your knees can cause these issues, which in turn cause pain and swelling. Employees who are on their feet a lot or often lift heavy objects are at particularly high risk of developing chronic knee joint. For example, nurses who are on their feet for 12 hours at a time and lift patients regularly may experience knee pain.

Acute Knee Injuries on the Job

While some knee injuries build up over time, others happen rather suddenly. For example, when someone falls, he or she may twist the knee in a way that causes serious injury. Workers may also sustain acute knee injuries on the job if an object strikes the knee. There are many specific types of acute knee injuries, including: 

• Dislocated or fractured kneecaps
• Torn soft tissue, including ACL and meniscus tears
• Sprains and strains 

The treatment for these injuries depends on the extent of the damage, the person’s overall health, and other important factors. Some patients require surgery, physical therapy, and/or rest from usage. Many people with acute knee injuries need to take time away from work. All of these treatments and the time off can cost money, which is why it’s important for workers who get knee injuries on the job to protect their rights and speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. 

What to Do If You Suffer a Knee Injury at Work

If your injury requires immediate medical attention, be sure to call 911 or have someone nearby call for you. Otherwise, be sure to notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible and schedule an appointment with a doctor right away. You should also keep records, including: 

• Receipts of any medical care
• Notes from doctors
• Contact information for anyone who could be a witness
• Notes from any contact you have with your employer and its insurance agency regarding the incident 

If you’re injured at work, your employer or its insurance company may pay for the medical care you need and a percentage of your missed wages. However, some employers and workers’ compensation insurers like to push back against these claims. That’s why it’s vital to have records and an experienced North Carolina workers’ compensation attorney on your side.

Hiring a North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

At King Law Firm, we know how quickly one fall can turn into massive medical bills. Better yet, we understand the tricks that insurance companies try to play in order to get out of paying workers the benefits to which they are entitled. If your knees have been injured at work, give us a call at (800) 635-1683 or contact us through our website.

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Greenville, NC 27834
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