Workplace injuries often come without warning, and neck pain is no exception.
Whether caused by a single accident or years of repetitive motion, neck injuries can have a profound impact on your ability to work and enjoy daily life.
Understanding these injuries is the first step toward prevention, recovery, and justice.
What Are the Most Common Neck Injuries from Working?
Several types of neck injuries frequently occur in the workplace. These injuries range in severity and often require medical attention and time off work for recovery. Here are some of the most common neck injuries:
- Sprains and strains. Sprains involve stretching or tearing of ligaments, while strains occur when muscles or tendons are overstretched. These injuries are common among workers who lift heavy objects or perform repetitive tasks, often resulting in pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the neck.
- Herniated discs. A herniated disc occurs when the cushioning between vertebrae ruptures or bulges, putting pressure on surrounding nerves. Workers who engage in repetitive bending or twisting motions are susceptible to severe pain, numbness, or tingling in the neck and arms.
- Pinched nerves. Pinched nerves, or cervical radiculopathy, occur when nerves in the neck are compressed. These injuries often develop from repetitive stress or improper ergonomic setups over time, resulting in sharp pain, weakness, or loss of sensation.
- Whiplash. Whiplash is commonly associated with sudden jerking motions of the neck, such as those experienced in workplace falls or vehicle accidents. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
- Cervical fractures. Although less common, neck fractures can result from high-impact accidents or falls at work. These injuries require immediate medical attention and can permanently impair if not appropriately treated.
These and other neck injuries can make it difficult to continue working or enjoying regular activities. Whether your injury resulted from a specific incident or developed over time as a result of your work duties, you may be able to pursue a workers’ compensation claim.
What Is the Most Common Reason for Neck Injuries in People Working in Offices?
Poor ergonomics is the leading cause of neck injuries in office settings.
Spending long hours at a desk, using improperly positioned monitors, or sitting in non-ergonomic chairs can strain the neck and shoulders over time.
The following are tips for avoiding neck strain in the office:
- Adjust monitor height—make sure your screen is at eye level to avoid looking up or down for extended periods;
- Use ergonomic chairs—invest in a chair that supports your back and neck correctly; and
- Take breaks—regular breaks to stretch and move can reduce muscle tension and improve posture.
While you may think of workers’ compensation applying to injuries suffered in a specific accident, injuries developed over time in an office setting can be just as painful and debilitating. If you have developed a neck injury as a result of your office job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Work-Related Neck Injury?
Minnesota law provides robust protections for employees who suffer neck injuries while on the job.
In Minnesota, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to support benefits for injured employees. These benefits are designed to assist injured employees in receiving fair compensation without requiring them to prove fault.
It is difficult to calculate an average settlement for a neck injury at work because settlements vary so much based on each employee’s individual circumstances. The value of your settlement includes the following types of compensation:
- Medical expenses. Workers’ compensation covers the full cost of surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment related to your injury.
- Lost wages. Your workers’ compensation settlement should include two-thirds of your average weekly wage during the time you were unable to work. If you were able to work part-time or at a reduced wage, you would get two-thirds of the difference between your normal wage and your reduced wage.
- Permanent impairment. Your settlement should include compensation for any permanent impairment that reduces your ability to work long-term.
It is essential to report your injury promptly to your employer to preserve your claim and maximize your potential compensation.
How Can a St. Paul Work Injury Lawyer Help?
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies or disputes over benefits. A St. Paul work injury lawyer can provide critical support by:
- Evaluating your case—determining the full extent of your rights and benefits;
- Negotiating with insurance companies—helping you receive fair compensation for your injury; and
- Representing you in hearings—advocating for your claim if denied or disputed.
With extensive experience in workers’ compensation cases, we have spent years defending injured workers and assisting them in receiving the benefits they’re entitled to under Minnesota law.
Contact Arechigo & Stokka to Discuss Your Workplace Injury Case at No Cost
At the Criminal Defense and Workers’ Compensation Law Offices of Arechigo & Stokka, Joshua Stokka takes pride in standing up for injured workers, stating that one of the most rewarding parts of his job “is defending workers against Goliaths (insurance companies) using the law.”
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation law.
FAQ’s
What Should I Do If I Experience Neck Pain at Work?
If you experience neck pain at work, the first step is to immediately report the injury to your employer. Seek medical attention to document and treat the injury. You should also keep detailed records of your symptoms, medical visits, and any work-related activities that may have contributed to the injury. Consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
Can Office Workers File Workers’ Compensation Claims for Neck Injuries?
Yes, office workers can file workers’ compensation claims for neck injuries. Injuries caused by poor ergonomics, repetitive stress, or improper workstation setups are just as valid as those caused by more physically demanding tasks. Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system ensures that all employees, regardless of the nature of their jobs, are eligible for benefits if the injury is work-related.
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Neck Injury in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, workers generally have 30 days to report a work-related injury to their employer, but some exceptions may extend this timeframe depending on the circumstances. Failing to report within the allowed time could jeopardize your claim. It’s always best to act quickly and consult a workers’ compensation attorney to handle your case appropriately.
Resources:
2024 Minnesota Statutes § 176.101, link.
2024 Minnesota Statutes § 176.141, link.
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