At some point in our lives, we may suffer from an injury or illness that prevents us from working. One such condition is Epicondylitis, which is a type of repetitive strain injury that affects the elbow. Epicondylitis can occur due to repetitive motions, such as those involved in manual labor or sports. When an employee in Connecticut is diagnosed with Epicondylitis, they may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits.

What is Epicondylitis?

Epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the elbow. It occurs when the tendons in the forearm that attach to the elbow become damaged or degenerated. The two types of Epicondylitis are lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial Epicondylitis (golfer's elbow). Lateral Epicondylitis affects the outer part of the elbow, while medial Epicondylitis affects the inner part of the elbow.

How is Epicondylitis Diagnosed?

If an individual experiences pain in their elbow, they should seek medical attention immediately. A doctor will examine the elbow and may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to diagnose Epicondylitis. In some cases, a doctor may also perform a physical examination to test for weakness or limited range of motion in the elbow.

Eligibility for Workers' Compensation Benefits in Connecticut

If an employee in Connecticut is diagnosed with Epicondylitis, they may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Workers' compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to work-related activities. In Connecticut, workers' compensation is mandatory for most employers.

To be eligible for workers' compensation benefits in Connecticut, the employee must demonstrate that their Epicondylitis was caused by their job. They must also report the injury to their employer as soon as possible and seek medical attention promptly. If the employee is eligible, they may receive benefits such as:

1. Medical Treatment: Workers' compensation will cover the cost of medical treatment for Epicondylitis, including doctor visits, medications, and physical therapy.

2. Temporary Total Disability Benefits: If an employee is unable to work due to their Epicondylitis, they may receive temporary total disability benefits. This benefit is typically two-thirds of their average weekly wage.

3. Permanent Partial Disability Benefits: If an employee has a permanent impairment due to their Epicondylitis, they may receive permanent partial disability benefits. The amount of this benefit is determined by a doctor's assessment of the impairment.

4. Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits: If an employee is unable to return to their previous job due to their Epicondylitis, they may receive vocational rehabilitation benefits. This benefit provides training and assistance to help the employee find a new job.

How to File a Workers' Compensation Claim for Epicondylitis in Connecticut

If an employee in Connecticut is diagnosed with Epicondylitis and believes that it was caused by their job, they should report the injury to their employer as soon as possible. The employee should complete a workers' compensation claim form, which is available from their employer or the Connecticut Workers' Compensation Commission.

The employer is responsible for filing the claim with the workers' compensation insurer. The insurer will investigate the claim and determine if the employee is eligible for benefits. If the claim is approved, the employee will begin receiving benefits.

Conclusion

Epicondylitis is a painful and debilitating condition that can make it difficult to work. If you are an employee in Connecticut and have been diagnosed with tennis elbow that you think may have been caused by repetitive trauma or other work activities, contact us at James Aspell P.C. for a free consultation today!