How Do I Know If My Pain is Covered by Workers’ Comp?

Wondering if your pain condition is covered by workers’ compensation? Learn how to spot the signs of a work-related injury and when to seek medical care — so you can access the benefits you’re entitled to.

If you slipped or fell off a ladder while at work, then you know what happened and when: Such incidents are obvious injuries that took place at work. But what about pain that creeps up over time? Some people develop nagging wrist pain or shoulder pain that may be linked to repetitive movement or poor ergonomics.

How do you know if your pain is covered by workers’ compensation? There’s not one clear answer, but the Texas Department of Insurance says that workers’ comp provides benefits such as medical care for employees who are injured or become ill because of their jobs.

Workers’ comp benefits can cover both a specific workplace injury and conditions that develop through repeated work activity. Conditions such as tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome may be associated with repetitive or forceful work activities.

At Spine & Pain Center of San Antonio in San Antonio and Live Oak, Texas, Dr. Sergio Alvarado and our team are here to help you find relief. We assess personal injuries by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and how it occurred or developed.

How can I tell if my pain is related to my job?

Work-related pain isn’t always caused by one dramatic accident. Sometimes, job-related pain stems from repetitive actions. These questions can help you pinpoint the source of your pain:

1. When did the pain start?

If you fell or felt pain after a sudden twisting movement, you might have an easy time connecting your pain to a particular incident that happened on the job.

2. Does the pain worsen while performing specific tasks?

Pain that appears or worsens while lifting, bending, standing, typing, or performing other typical work activities may indicate an underlying work-related condition.

3. Did the pain develop after repetitive activity?

Repeating the same activities over weeks, months, and years can contribute to overuse injuries. Repetitive motion, forceful exertion, awkward postures, and heavy lifting are risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders.

You may not be able to identify one moment when your pain began, but if your pain improves when you’re away from work and returns when you resume your typical work duties, that can provide clues that your work activities are contributing to the problem.

How is work-related pain diagnosed?

Our team can review your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical exam, and order diagnostic tests as needed. You should have this initial exam as soon as possible, so you can notify your employer and get the workers’ comp claim process going in a timely fashion.

In Texas, you have a 30-day window to notify your employer of a work-related injury or illness. Our team can help you with the workers’ comp documentation process, too.

If you suspect your injury is work-related, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment at your nearest Spine & Pain Center of San Antonio office in San Antonio or Live Oak, Texas, today.