What is arthritis, and what causes it to get worse?
"Arthritis" literally means joint inflammation. Joints are places where two bones meet, such as your elbow, knee or even in the spine. There are many different types of arthritis with different causes and treatments. It is even possible to have arthritis and not even know it, as it may be an asymptomatic condition until something causes the underlying arthritis to become painful. There are obviously any number of events that could occur to either make underlying arthritis become painful or already symptomatic arthritis to become worse or disabling.
Can Workers' Compensation cover an exacerbation of arthritis?
If an aggravation, exacerbation, or acceleration of the underlying arthritic condition was caused by work activity, then that could be the basis to file a New York Workers' Compensation claim. If a person has pre-existing arthritis, with or without symptoms, and an accident occurs at work that causes the pre-existing arthritis to become disabling so that the person can no longer do their job, then this person may be disabled in the "compensation sense" and could file a Workers' Compensation claim in New York State.
These types of cases can be complex and require a doctor licensed to see injured workers to give an opinion on whether the work activity caused, exacerbated, or accelerated the underlying arthritis.
We are very familiar with these types of cases at MCV Law, and help sort through the complexities of of the system so that injured workers get the benefits that they are entitled to. If you have a work-related case of arthritis, we welcome you to connect with our office for answers to your questions and the legal guidance you need.
"Very happy with MCV Law. Christopher Stringham and Valerie Swieck have helped me with several injuries over the years and won every case. They are pleasant to work with and explain everything. I recommend them to anyone needing help with Workers' Comp. I am very happy I went with them."
-Jim T., a satisfied MCV Law client
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