Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease and Workplace Injuries: How Employers Can Help

Workplace injuries can have long-lasting effects, especially when they worsen pre-existing conditions like Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD).

For employers, ensuring a safe work environment and supporting injured employees through proper medical care and rehabilitation is essential.

A proactive approach not only helps protect workers but also reduces downtime and promotes a quicker, safer return to work.

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

DDD is a common condition where the discs between the vertebrae in the spine wear down over time, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and potential long-term disability.

While aging is a natural factor, workplace injuries can significantly aggravate or accelerate the condition, making symptoms worse.

How Workplace Injuries Can Aggravate Degenerative Disc Disease

Although DDD may be a pre-existing condition, workplace incidents can directly contribute to its progression. Common hazards include:

• Slips and Falls: Sudden falls can place excessive pressure on the spine, leading to herniated discs or worsening degeneration.
• Lifting and Bending: Repetitive motions, particularly heavy lifting or frequent bending, increase strain on spinal discs.
• Twisting Movements: Awkward or sudden twisting can cause disc bulges or herniations, accelerating DDD.
• Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Jobs requiring long hours of driving or standing on hard surfaces can contribute to disc wear and tear.

The Employer’s Role in Preventing and Managing Workplace Injuries

Employers have a crucial role in protecting their workforce from injuries that can exacerbate DDD. Here’s how employers can prevent DDD from becoming a compensable work injury:

1. Pre-Placement Exams:

• Baseline Health Assessment: Conduct thorough pre-placement exams to establish a baseline health status for all employees. This includes detailed medical history, physical examinations and range of motion, to identify any pre-existing conditions like DDD.
• Physical Ability Tests: Assess the physical capabilities of employees to ensure they can safely perform job-related tasks without exacerbating existing conditions.
• Identifying Pre-Existing Conditions: In Pennsylvania, any pre-existing condition that is exacerbated at work is considered compensable. Knowing the baseline health status enables healthcare providers to create personalized treatment plans aimed at returning the employee to their pre-injury condition.
• Preventing Compensable Claims: CNS Works to ensure any imminent risk factors are addressed when hiring your next employee. 

2. Job Matching:

• Ergonomic Job Design: Design jobs to minimize physical strain, especially for positions that require heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or prolonged sitting/standing.
• Job Placement: Match employees to roles that align with their physical capabilities, reducing the risk of DDD exacerbation.

3. Workplace Safety Programs:

• Training and Education: Provide training on proper body mechanics, lifting techniques, and posture to prevent injury.
• Regular Health Monitoring: Implement periodic health check-ups to monitor employees’ physical condition and detect early signs of DDD exacerbation.

Workers’ Compensation Challenges for Degenerative Disc Disease

Workers’ compensation claims involving DDD can be challenging because insurers may argue:

• The condition was pre-existing and not caused by workplace activities.
• The injury is due to aging rather than work-related factors.
• The pain is not severe enough to warrant benefits.

However, if a workplace injury accelerates or aggravates DDD, employees may still be eligible for compensation.

Employers can support their workers by maintaining clear records of workplace incidents, providing necessary documentation, and cooperating with medical evaluations to ensure employees get the care they need.

How CNS Occupational Medicine Can Help

Understanding workers’ rights and taking proactive steps can make all the difference in securing proper treatment and recovery.

At CNS Occupational Medicine, we offer a range of services to support both employers and employees, including:

• DOT and Non-DOT Medical Services
• OSHA-Related Work Evaluations
• Regulatory Examinations and Fit Testing
• Return-to-Work Evaluations

Our experienced providers understand federal and state regulations, ensuring that employees receive accurate medical assessments and effective treatment plans.

For more information, contact us at 800.551.9816 or info@cnsoccmed.com to schedule an appointment with an Occupational Healthcare Specialist.