Lifting a heavy box, typing all day or repeating the same motion every shift can leave you sore and stiff. At HealthSource Chiropractic of Roseland, workplace injury treatment begins with a careful exam. Dr. Jenna Patel, D.C., looks at how you got hurt and what your job asks of your body.
Below, we cover common work injuries, what to do after you get hurt and how New Jersey workers’ compensation works. We also explain when to see a medical doctor first.
Common workplace injuries we see
Some work injuries happen in a moment, like a strain from lifting with a twist. Others build slowly because your body repeats the same motion or holds the same position for hours. Many people in the offices along Eisenhower Parkway sit at a desk most of the day, and that adds up too.
Work injuries often show up as problems like these:
- Low back strain from lifting, carrying or twisting with a load
- Neck and shoulder tension after long hours at a screen
- Wrist and hand pain from typing, using a mouse or gripping tools
- Repetitive strain from doing the same task all shift
You can read more about lifting strains on our back pain relief page. If your wrist or fingers tingle at the keyboard, see our carpal tunnel syndrome page.
Report the injury to your employer first
If you get hurt on the job, the first step is simple: tell your employer as soon as you can. According to the New Jersey Department of Labor, you can tell your supervisor, the personnel office or anyone in authority at work. The notice does not have to be in writing. If you need medical care, ask your employer for it as soon as possible as well.
How New Jersey workers’ compensation works
Workers’ compensation in New Jersey is a no fault insurance program. It provides medical treatment and wage replacement for job-related injuries and illnesses, no matter who was at fault.
Here is a rule many people miss. Under New Jersey law, your employer or its insurance carrier can choose the doctors who treat a work injury. If the carrier accepts your claim, it directs you to an authorized medical provider. So before you book workplace injury care with any office, check with your employer or the carrier. Ask whether care with our office can be part of your claim.
The NJ Department of Labor explains these injured worker protections step by step, including what to do if there is a dispute.
How Dr. Patel approaches workplace injury treatment
Every plan starts with an evaluation. First, Dr. Patel asks how the injury happened, what your job involves and what makes the pain better or worse. Next, she checks your posture, mobility and pain. We take X-rays on site only when they are clinically needed.
Dr. Patel looks for the source of the problem, not only the symptoms. For example, a sore neck may connect to how high your screen sits or how far you reach for the mouse. Then she explains her findings and a personalized care plan before any care starts. That way, you can ask questions and decide what feels right for you.
What workplace injury treatment may include
Your plan depends on your exam, your job and your goals. Depending on what Dr. Patel finds, care may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments, which may help stiff joints move more easily
- Soft tissue work, including instrument-assisted techniques
- Progressive Rehab® and functional exercise to help you rebuild strength and control
- Kinesiology taping, which may offer support during your workday
- Class IV laser therapy, when it suits your case
- Lifestyle guidance on how you lift, sit and move at work
Daily habits matter too, so we also talk about small changes that may ease the strain your job puts on your body. MedlinePlus has a helpful overview of ergonomics at work if you want to read more.
When to see a medical doctor or go to the ER
Some work injuries need medical care first. Call 911 or go to the ER right away if you notice any of these signs:
- A fall from a height or a hard hit to the head
- Confusion, fainting or a severe headache after an accident
- Bones or joints that look out of place
- Sudden numbness or weakness in an arm or leg
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
You should also see a medical doctor if pain keeps getting worse, swelling keeps coming back or you cannot do your job. If your exam shows signs that need medical care, we will tell you so. This page is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Paying for workplace injury treatment
A workers’ compensation claim follows the carrier’s rules, so please check with them before your first visit. If your visit is not part of a claim, our insurance and financing page explains your options. We accept most major insurance plans, and we offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit, plus the APEX discount plan. Please call to verify your plan before you come in.
Booking your visit
Our office is at 12 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 1, in the Downtowne At Roseland complex. Dr. Patel speaks English, Hindi and Gujarati. You can book online or call us at (973) 200-2424.