injured on job a month ago (NJ)

[ree62]

I work as a CNA (soon to be 48yrs of age) in a hospital, I was injured while scanning a patients ID bracelet and the bed rolled away because it wasnt locked... I reached and grabbed hold of the bedrail, pulled it back into myself to stop it from rolling away. also to try and prevent me from landing on the patient.

I ended up with cervical and thoracic sprains... lots of muscle pain, numbness in my left arm and hand, migraine headaches, and limited motion in my neck.

Before this incident i had no history of neck pain at all... today I'm being refered to another Doctor (Ortho- Spine Specialist) and told that the problem is Spondylosis/Arthritis... After having the MRI results read (C5-6 and C6-7 effected) I'm being told that the incident stimulated the already existing problem (even tho it wasnt a problem until after the incident).

So far, I have not sought legal council, but now I'm wondering if i should?

Thank you in advance for any advice/suggestions

[Manley2]

if you had no problem before then the incident cause the injury. You may have arthritis in that area but this caused it to flare up and become a problem. If this didn't happen the arthritis may have never cause you any trouble. If they are starting to fight it you may need to get a lawyer. It normally is free to speak with one about your case.

[nursedina]

Ree - sounds like a condition that you didn't know you had, was aggravated by your injury at work. As far as I know, that is still a workmans comp claim.
I would talk to a lawyer if i were you. Most initial visits and consults don't cost anything.

Good luck!

[1171]

if benefits are being denied/delayed then you may wish to represented.