Spondylolysis can be a work-related condition and form the basis of a workers compensation claim in some circumstances. It may be the result of a violent traumatic work incident or from job duties causing excessive, repeated strain on the low back. Workers who repeatedly bend backwards, can get it, as well as a worker who falls onto his or her back, or suffers a heavy blow.
Nonsurgical rehabilitation typically starts with rest, perhaps followed by physical therapy. An injured worker may be taken off work or given work restrictions. In order to receive workers compensation benefits, there must be an off work authorization from a doctor for a work-related condition. The first goal of treatment is to control symptoms. The therapist finds positions and movements that ease pain. Treatments of heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation may be used to calm pain and muscle spasm. As recovery progresses, gradually advance in a series of strengthening exercises for the abdominal and low back muscles. Working these core muscles helps patients begin moving easier and lessens the chances of future pain and problems. When needed, an occupational therapist can provide suggestions on employment body mechanic and technique, equipment to make job duties more palatable and with less chance of re-injuring his or her back. A primary purpose of therapy is to help patients learn how to take care of their symptoms and prevent future problems. Patients are given a home program of exercises to continue improving flexibility, posture, endurance, and low back and abdominal strength.
After surgery, rehabilitation may be more complex. Patients who stay in the hospital may visit with a physical therapist in the hospital room soon after surgery. The treatment sessions help patients learn to move and do routine activities without putting extra strain on the back. During recovery from surgery, patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions which may include wearing a back brace or support belt. They should be cautious about overdoing activities in the first few weeks after surgery. Many surgical patients need physical therapy outside of the hospital. Patients who’ve had lumbar fusion surgery normally need to wait at least six weeks before beginning a rehabilitation program. This delay gives the surgical area a chance to start healing.
McCormick Law Office in Milwaukee, Wisconsin represents injured workers with work-related or job duties caused spondylolysis. There are congenital and other factors, but the employer takes the worker as they find him or her, and if the job contributes to the disability caused by spondylolysis, then its work-related and we will fight to prove the case. Spondylolysis cases are tough, but they can be winners. Did the work accident or job duties cause or make the spondylolysis worse?
