Workplace neck injuries can have serious and long-lasting impacts on health and daily life. Recognizing common types of neck injuries and their warning signs is vital for getting medical help and protecting your rights.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

If you experience any of the following after a work task you believe caused injury you may have suffered damage to your neck

• Severe neck pain
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the neck
• Pain radiating into shoulders or arms
• Swelling or bruising around the neck
• Tenderness to touch in the injured area
• Numbness or tingling in arms, hands or fingers
• Weakness in arms or legs
• In extreme cases paralysis in the limbs

These symptoms may arise immediately or develop over time depending on the injury type

Three Common Neck Injuries in Work Settings

1. Cervical Fracture
   A fracture or broken bone in the neck (cervical vertebrae) is a serious injury requiring immediate medical attention. Without prompt care a broken neck can lead to paralysis or even death Treatment often involves stabilization with braces, possibly surgery and physical therapy
2. Pinched Nerve
   When nerves in the neck become compressed by surrounding tissue a pinched nerve can cause pain that travels from the neck into the shoulder and arm Other symptoms include tingling or “pins and needles” sensations, loss of feeling, or muscle weakness
3. Whiplash
   Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are rapidly jerked back and forward This motion often results in strain or overextension of soft tissues such as muscles, tendons and ligaments Whiplash frequently happens in car accidents but also in work related events involving sudden impact or abrupt motion

How These Injuries Often Happen at Work

Some workplace situations that commonly lead to neck injuries include

• Objects or equipment falling and striking a worker’s head or neck
• Vehicle collisions during job-related travel
• Slipping on wet or uneven surfaces
• Falling from heights and landing on one’s neck area
• Overexertion lifting, carrying or moving heavy items

Workers’ Compensation and Your Legal Rights

If you suffer a neck injury during your employment performing a job task you may be eligible for workers’ compensation in California This may cover medical treatment, temporary disability while you recover, possibly permanent disability if you cannot return to your previous function and related benefits

Sometimes claims are denied for reasons such as

• Preexisting health conditions
• Insufficient evidence showing the injury is work related
• Arguments about whether symptoms actually match the injury claimed

Hillstone Law can help you pursue your claim by

• Gathering medical records, photos of the incident and witness statements
• Demonstrating the cause of your injury was work related
• Challenging denials of benefits or under-valued offers
• Seeking full compensation including medical bills, lost wages, future disability and pain and suffering