I need help

[mel1980]

hello i need some info on workmans comp laws in NJ i have been diagnosed with mild carpal tunnel which they told me to use a brace which doesnt help because i cant work with it now my employer is aware of the carpal tunnel and i have also had severe neck pain for the past 3 months have gotten the run around from doctors...I have gone threw my insurance and i did not fill out an injury report because there really has been no injury other then i use my hands all day at work and do lift 2-40 lbs daily...I finally went to an orthopedist today who gave me meds and a script for a neck brace he said he would put me out of work for 4-5 weeks now will this be considered workmans comp since its from work what do i do he said the only way i will heal is with rest and being out of work what do i do? thank you Melody

[AQA]

http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/wc/work...r_faq.html Every state is different. From what I read, you need to noyify your employer or supervisor. At the next Dr. appointment tell them you believe it is work related. You can also gain state specific info at the top of this page. I am sorry to see you here as well as others, But I am greatfull they are hear. Others will be along shortly to help.

[ksgirl]

At one time I was diagnosed with mild carpal tunnel and the dr wanted me to wear a wrist brace at night, it actually worked for me. I would suggest having the dr put it in writing that these injuries are work related and then filing a wc report at work. Don't do anything the dr says you can't do. I wish you the best of luck and I am glad you found this amazing site. There are some truly wonderful and knowledgable people here.

[red1030]

Hi mel, and welcome to the forum. I am sorry to hear of your issues, hopefully i can help you somewhat as I am from NJ. First, in NJ you must see a doctor that your employer sends you too. You will be denied based on what your physician says. In NJ, it is always the doctor of the employer and W/C Insurance company's choosing. First thing you need to do is to report your health issues to your employer. They must complete a report that must be filed with their w/C insurance company and then with the state. They they should send you to their W/C docs. From there the IC will investigate the claim and communiate with you directly. If the claim is accepted, then you must be off for 7 days without pay from W/C so you will generally be paid through your sick time if available or vacation time. Once you see the employer doctor then what you will recieve in terms of a claim and restrictions, off duty etc will be dependent upon what that doctor says. Honestly I would recommend that you obtain a lawyer now. You need one that is certified. There are a few recommended on the NJ web site. You have been given the web site above. I would familarize myself with it. First start with filing a claim and seeing an employers physician about your concerns. Then we can all go from there. Best wishes. NJ is not a W/C friendly state.. so just know that you may have a battle in front of you... Red

[mel1980]

thank you all so much for your input i am home once again due to neck pain i guess i will have to go back to work tommorow and speak with the hr guy...