Degenerative Bone and Joint Diseases

Degenerative bone and joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, and other chronic conditions, can significantly impair a worker’s ability to perform job duties over time. These conditions often develop or worsen due to repetitive stress, physical demands, or injuries sustained in the workplace. In Maryland, workers who experience degenerative bone and joint diseases that are directly related to their employment may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial needs. If you believe you sustained an injury due to workplace conditions, it is in your best interest to speak to an attorney about your rights. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our experienced Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys are adept at navigating the complexities of claims for benefits, and if we represent you, we will work tirelessly to help you seek the outcome you deserve.

Degenerative bone and joint diseases encompass a range of conditions that affect the joints, cartilage, and bones, often causing chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Common examples include osteoarthritis, which results from the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, and degenerative disc disease, which involves the deterioration of spinal discs. These conditions can develop gradually due to age-related wear and tear or may be accelerated by repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or physical trauma experienced in the workplace.

Workers in physically demanding jobs, such as construction, manufacturing, or healthcare, are particularly susceptible to these conditions. For example, a nurse who frequently lifts patients or a construction worker who operates heavy machinery may develop degenerative joint disease due to the repetitive strain placed on their bodies. Symptoms can include chronic pain, swelling, loss of range of motion, and difficulty performing basic tasks, all of which can significantly impact a worker’s ability to fulfill their job responsibilities.

The financial and emotional toll of degenerative bone and joint diseases can be substantial. Medical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or even surgery, may be necessary to manage symptoms, while time away from work can result in lost income.

Maryland law provides workers’ compensation benefits for injuries or conditions that arise out of and during the course of employment. As such, workers with degenerative bone and joint diseases may qualify for benefits if they can demonstrate that their condition was caused or exacerbated by their job duties. Full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees are typically eligible for workers’ compensation, but independent contractors are generally excluded unless they have been misclassified as such.

To establish eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits, it is necessary to provide medical evidence linking the degenerative condition to the workplace. This often requires detailed documentation from treating physicians, diagnostic tests, and a thorough explanation of how job-related activities contributed to the disease’s development or progression.

Workers’ compensation benefits for degenerative bone and joint diseases may include coverage for medical expenses related to the condition, such as doctor visits, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, medications, and surgical procedures. Temporary disability benefits may be available to replace lost wages for workers who are unable to work while undergoing treatment or recovering. In cases where the condition results in long-term impairment, workers may qualify for permanent partial or total disability benefits to compensate for their enduring loss of income.

If you are struggling with degenerative bone and joint diseases caused or worsened by your work, you should talk to an attorney about your right to pursue workers’ compensation benefits. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our experienced Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys take pride in helping injured workers protect their interests, and if we represent you, we will diligently pursue any benefits recoverable. Our office is located in Greenbelt, Maryland, and we represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, Rockville, Silver Spring, La Plata, and other cities in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, as well as all counties in the State of Maryland. To set up a free and confidential meeting, please contact us online or call us at (301) 441-2022.