Need help in the state of CT

[first_timer]

I have been out of work since Feb. I had a ACDF w/fusion on C5-C6 for a herniated disc, narrowing of the spine, and the fluid from the disc was going down the spinal column. Prior to surgery both hands were completely numb feeling, parts of my arms were like that also, along with bad neck, shoulder and arm pain, and at the very end, it was effecting my legs. Now, almost 2 months since the surgery, my legs are completely fine, I still have stiffness in my left arm along with pain and muscle cramps if I drive for too long or am real tired. My left hand still has 2 fingers (thumb and index) that are still numb feeling along with the palm and top of the hand by those fingers. It also hurts in my neck if I move too fast or if I move my neck in certain positions. At the time of the surgery the doc told me I might not have complete recovery especially in my hands (they were the first to go).

I just had my follow up appt. Doc said everything seems to be aligning correctly. I told him what was going, he said he would release me and allow me to go back to work. I have a desk job and am scared. I am not sure what to do. He didn't go over anything about the rehabilitation, complete recovery or anything. I am going to call him and go over things better with him but what about workers comp. I was told that if I go back to work my case gets closed with the exception of doctor coverage. Should I get a lawyer, call workers comp, speak to the doctor again face to face? I have never been on any kind of workers comp before and don't have a clue.

Thanks for any help and sorry so long.

[AQA]

I would suggest that you go to work. One of two things will happen. You will be able to perform the functions of the job, or you will not be able to. You will have shown that you tryed. If you can not perform the duties. Then the dr. will have to look at other remedies.

[first_timer]

But I was told if I do that my case will close except for doctor appts being paid for.

[AQA]

I am unfamialure with your state laws. In my mind what you were told does not make sence. Alot of patients are sent back to work to early. Some patients are sent back to work just to see if they can physically handle it.

Hold on here. Are you saying that your monitary benifits end if you go back to work and only the medical will continue???

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

Your case isn't going to just close because you went to work. As it is possible your doctor's have more plans for treatment. If not, then settlement will be order. A good time to settle though is 1 full year after this type surgery.

[1171]

I didn't catch the state; what is it?
AQA where did you see the state reference?

the answer depends on you are whether you are in a wageloss or impairment state.
yes, some states will only provide additional compensation if there is wage loss.

[AQA]

1171 Wrote:I didn't catch the state; what is it?
AQA where did you see the state reference?

the answer depends on you are whether you are in a wageloss or impairment state.
yes, some states will only provide additional compensation if there is wage loss.

1171, the state is listed in the title.

[first_timer]

The state is CT, I put it right in the thread title.

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

From what I see from reading here. Is the cervical nerves are now healing. This takes a lot of time, sometimes as much as a year or more if they fully heal.