Among the top injuries (listed in order of occurrence) are: Sprains/ strains, bruises/contusions, cuts/lacerations, fractures, burns, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis.

Low Back Pain
The average worker spends approximately one-third of their working life on the job most people will experience back pain at sometime in their life and very often as a result of a work-related event. Interestingly enough, lower back pain is second only to the common cold as a leading cause of missed work. Overuse and repetitive motion accounts for one-half of the sprains and strains which result in lost days of work.

Overuse & Repetitive Motion
Related injuries account for one-third of cases involving days away from work. When there is a mismatch between the physical requirements of the job and the physical capacity of the worker, work-related muscle skeletal disorders (WMSD) can result. These often develop as a result of overuse and repetitive motion. Workers who must do their work in an awkward position, or must use a great deal of force to perform their jobs, are most likely to develop WMSD. These now account for a third of all lost work injuries and illnesses. Examples of WMSD include back injuries, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Goals
The American College of Occupational Medicine places the highest priority on health and safety of the individual in both the workplace and the environment. For the employee who has been injured on the job, goals include treating the injuries quickly, minimizing lost time, and returning to work as soon as possible. This may include ergonomic adjustment (fitting the job to the workers).

What Are My Rights?
In Illinois your employer must cover all necessary and reasonable medical bills incurred as a result of your work injury. Generally, treatment by up to two doctors of your choice at your employer's expense and aggravation of a preexisting condition is covered. Repetitive trauma injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome are covered by the Illinois Workers Compensation Act. The Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) recommends obtaining first aid or medical treatment even if your injury appears minor. It is not uncommon for a minor injury to result in a serious prolonged disability that may have been prevented with treatment when the injury first occurred.

Is My Treatment Covered?
Watertower Surgicenter does accept Workmen Compensation coverage for reimbursement, however, prior approval is required. If you would like assistance or have questions regarding your treatment or coverage, please feel free to contact us at our Website.

If you think you have any of these conditions feel free to contact us for more information or to speak with one of our specialists by calling 312-944-2929.