Sciatica: Is It Covered Under Workers' Comp?

After a work accident or exposure, it is common for injury victims to develop low back pain or sciatica. Sciatica usually refers to pain, weakness, or tingling in the leg. It is caused by irritation or damage to the sciatic nerve, usually from a herniated disc. The sciatic nerve begins in your lower back, runs through your hips and buttocks, and extends through your legs.

Sciatica pain can vary widely, and it often starts slowly. It may get worse from the following:

• Sitting
• Standing for a long time
• Sneezing, coughing, or laughing
• Bending backwards

If your work duties caused you to develop sciatica, you are entitled to workers' compensation benefits that pay for your medical bills and lost wages. If you have a permanent loss of function, you may also be entitled to a cash settlement for your injuries. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to prove that your back pain is work-related.

There are two types of injury recognized under New Jersey Workers' Compensation law. The first is the specific accident. With these injuries, you are able to determine exactly when and where you were injured. This makes it much easier to prove that your condition is work-related.

The second type of injury is called an occupational exposure. These injuries are caused by repetitive motion or exposures over a long period of time. Unlike a specific accident, you cannot pinpoint exactly when an occupational exposure occurred. Insurance companies may use this fact to unfairly dispute your claim.

An experienced workers' compensation lawyer can protect your rights as an injured worker and help you get the benefits you and your family need.