What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain around the outside of the elbow due to overuse of the tendons, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. Despite its name, tennis elbow can occur from a variety of activities beyond tennis, such as painting, hammering, typing, or any repetitive gripping activities.
The pain associated with tennis elbow typically develops gradually and may start as mild discomfort, but it can worsen over time.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow that may worsen when using your wrist and hand, especially during activities like lifting objects, making a fist, or straightening your wrist
- Weak grip strength, particularly when attempting motions similar to shaking hands, turning a doorknob, or holding a coffee cup
Can tennis elbow be a work-related injury?
Yes, repetitive stress injuries like tennis elbow can indeed be caused by your job. To prove that your tennis elbow is work-related, it’s important to document your job activities, obtain a medical diagnosis linking the condition to your job, and ensure that your symptoms align with the type of work you do.
What benefits does workers’ comp offer for tennis elbow?
Workers’ compensation offers several key benefits for employees who develop tennis elbow as a work-related injury. These benefits are designed to cover the costs associated with treatment and provide financial support during recovery.
They include:
- Medical coverage. Workers’ comp will pay for all necessary medical treatments related to your tennis elbow, including doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any required surgeries.
- Wage replacement. If tennis elbow prevents you from working, workers’ compensation provides a portion of your lost wages during your recovery, typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Vocational rehabilitation. If your tennis elbow prevents you from returning to your original job, workers’ comp can cover the cost of vocational training to help you transition to a different type of work.
It’s important to note that while most North Carolina employers with 3 or more employees are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance, there are some exceptions. For example, independent contractors don’t qualify for benefits.
If you’re unsure of your eligibility for workers’ comp, be sure to discuss your case with a local workers’ compensation attorney who can help you understand your legal rights.
How do I file for workers’ comp in NC?
Filing for workers’ compensation in North Carolina involves a few key steps to ensure your claim is properly documented and processed:
- Seek medical care. As soon as you notice symptoms that may point to tennis elbow, seek medical attention. This ensures you receive the necessary treatment and provides official documentation of your injury, which is crucial for your claim.
- Inform your employer. Notify your employer of your injury in writing within 30 days. This step is essential for preserving your right to file a workers’ compensation claim. Make sure the notification includes details about your tennis elbow diagnosis and how it may have occurred.
- Submit Form 18. To officially start your workers’ compensation claim, submit Form 18 to the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). It’s best to do this as soon as possible, but you must file it within 2 years of your injury. Send 2 copies of Form 18 to the NCIC, 1 copy to your employer, and keep 1 copy for yourself.
- Wait for the insurance company’s decision. After receiving your Form 18, the workers’ compensation insurance company is required to provide written notice of whether they accept or deny your claim within 14 days. This notice will determine your next steps in the process.
If your claim is denied and you need help filing an appeal, or if you simply want to ensure you’re receiving the full benefits to which you’re entitled, consider hiring a workers’ compensation attorney. An attorney can help guide you through the process, assist with the appeal, and work to minimize your stress while maximizing your benefits.
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