Workers' Compensation
The basics of workers compensation
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Workers’ compensation is an insurance policy held by an employer providing medical treatment and compensation to employees injured on the job.
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Common workplace injuries can include slips, falls, breaks, lifting injuries, contact with machinery and overexertion, among other issues.
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Treatment depends upon the specific injury and can include physical therapy, work conditioning, ergonomics and other evaluations to determine when the employee may safely return to work.
What is workers' compensation?
Workers’ compensation, commonly known as WORKERS' COMPENSATION, is an insurance held by an employer that covers employees with work related injuries for medical expenses and lost wages while they recover. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, companies reported 2.7 million workplace injuries in 2020.
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Workers’ compensation specifically covers work related injuries but is not health insurance, which is broader coverage of health issues occurring outside the workplace or preventive health measures. Workers’ comp is regulated on the state level, and each state has its own requirements and penalties. In California, workers’ comp is mandatory for all employers and is managed by the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
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There are many types of injuries and illnesses that can result in a workers’ compensation claim.
Workplace injuries are common and can range from mild pain to severe disability. Seeking medical attention early is important for an accurate diagnosis, proper treatment and coverage under a workers’ compensation claim.
Therapists spend a great deal of time showing workers’ comp patients how to properly perform exercises to improve their strength, help them safely return to work, and to prevent further injury.
The most common workplace injuries
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Lower back disorders.
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Neck and upper back injuries.
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Herniated disks and more serious spinal injuries.
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Upper and lower extremities sprains, breaks and strains.
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Repetitive stress and tendinitis.
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Carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Crush injuries.
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Epicondylitis (tennis elbow).
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De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.
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Osteoarthritis.
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Hernias.
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Concussions.
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Lacerations.
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Musculoskeletal disorders/disfunction (MSDs).
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Skin irritants and allergic reactions.
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Traumatic injuries.
The top three leading causes of workplace injuries are overexertion, slips/trips/falls and contact with machinery or equipment. These account for roughly 84% of all nonfatal injuries that result in time off of work.
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Leading workplace injuries and illnesses include: