The day to day routine for most people involves going to work, doing their job, and going home. Most of the time, there isn’t much that happens to disrupt that routine. Occasionally, however, that routine may become disrupted by an injury suffered at work. This can be a stressful time for any employee. It’s important to take care of yourself in the aftermath.
Visit Your Doctor
Even if your injury doesn’t seem very severe at the time, it’s still important to go see a doctor. Doctors have the equipment and training that will allow them to accurately assess your condition and determine the extent of your injuries. This is especially important if you intend to file a workers compensation claim, as you’ll need the doctor’s diagnosis of your injuries to help substantiate your claim. Depending on your employer’s policy, you may be able to see your own or you may be required to see one they have pre approved. During your visit, be factual and accurate in the details you provide. It’s also best to avoid speaking negatively about your employer. According to Bruscato Law, speaking negatively about your employer can cause your doctor to doubt your symptoms.
Go to a Physical Therapist
Doctors aren’t the only healthcare professionals you can see after a workplace injury. Depending on your injury, you could benefit from seeing a physical therapist to aid your recovery. According to Dee Physical Therapy, physical therapists are trained to help people recover from injury by using a variety of therapies in conjunction with strengthening and mobility exercises. If you choose to go to a physical therapist, they will likely give you exercises for you to do at home between appointments. For best results and a quicker recovery, make sure you do the exercises as prescribed.
Take Time to Rest
Rest is an important part of the recovery process. It can be frustrating to realize that you may not be able to do things quite the way you used to before you were injured. Your body needs time to heal itself though, so giving it the time it needs is important. Because muscles and tissue heal while you sleep, according to AFMC, it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Failing to rest appropriately while recovering from an injury prolongs the healing process and could end up causing more damage. That isn’t to say that you should avoid all physical activity altogether though. You may just need to back off and take it a lot easier for a while during your recovery. Consult with a doctor or physical therapist if you need guidance.
File a Workers Compensation Claim
One of the first things you should do after being injured at work is to notify your employer. They should provide you with a form to file a workers compensation claim. It’s important to note that filing a workers compensation claim isn’t you filing a lawsuit against your employer. It’s a request for benefits. Once you’ve completed the form, return it to your employer. Make sure you keep a copy of the filled out form for your records. According to Disability Secrets, filing a claim is usually a time sensitive matter, so it’s important to get that taken care of as soon as possible. Even if your claim is entirely valid, filing it outside the deadline could result in it being denied.
Communicate with Your Employer
Throughout the process of your recovery, it’s important to maintain open communication with your employer. You don’t have to share with them details regarding any treatment you’re receiving or anything related to your claim. It’s a good idea to keep them informed of any work restrictions you’re under and any accommodations you need to fulfill your work duties though. These recommendations will most likely come through the doctor you see, which is another reason why it’s so important to see one after suffering an injury at work.
Taking care of yourself after suffering a workplace injury is critical to your ability to return to your job in a timely manner. It’s important to get the medical care and rest you need. You may need to file a workers compensation claim or even hire an attorney. Make sure you communicate with your employer throughout the process. This will help you have a smooth recovery and return to your normal routine as soon as possible.
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