American work-related injury statistics are staggering. Every day 12,600 people are injured at work, which adds up to 4.6 million work-related injuries every year. While safety should always come first, accidents happen. If you end up getting injured at work, staying calm and following the correct protocols can help get you on the road to recovery and ensure that you’re eligible for any available worker’s compensation.
Here at American River Urgent Care in Orangevale, California, Our team of urgent care providers diagnoses and treats work-related injuries almost every day. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to assess your injury so we can give you the best treatment to reduce your pain and help you heal and get back to work.
Different types of work have various injury risks. Depending on your type of work, you might be at risk of overexertion, like completing repetitive motions or having to move heavy objects that can increase your risk of both degenerative injuries like tendonitis and acute injuries like throwing out your back. Other common injuries include sprains, strains, and tears. You might also sustain lacerations or puncture wounds.
No one ever expects a work injury. Accidents, especially when your health and safety is threatened, can trigger the release of adrenaline, your fight or flight hormone. Adrenaline helps you avoid danger and get through the situation. However, adrenaline can also block pain and other symptoms. Follow these steps, even if you feel okay.
First aid can stabilize your condition so you can get the professional treatment you need. Stop any bleeding by putting pressure on lacerations. Check for broken bones and any immediate swelling or bruising. If necessary, call 911 for emergency treatment.
You have probably participated in a workplace health and safety training program. Make sure to follow your employer’s injury protocols. In California, the Department of Industrial Relations recommends reporting your injury as soon as possible. Prompt reporting can help streamline the process for benefits and medical care. You could lose your right to workers’ compensation benefits if you don’t report your injury within 30 days.
Once you’re stabilized, make your way to our walk-in clinic for urgent care. If possible, call ahead to let us know that you’re on your way and some of the details about your injury. This helps us see you as quickly as possible.
We provide comprehensive exams, including in-office digital X-rays, to evaluate your injury. Once we understand your needs, we provide customized treatment to help you heal, relieve your pain, and get back to work as quickly as possible.
Our team can also complete any necessary forms or paperwork required by your employer, insurance, or workers’ compensation claim.
Getting treatment for work-related injuries right away can help you avoid pain and reduce the amount of time you need to stay at home and recover. As we mentioned, adrenaline can block pain signals, but we can identify injuries before you even feel them. If you delay treatment, your condition could get worse and end up causing more pain, more disruption to your life, and more lost wages.
If you’re injured at work, it’s essential to act right away. Call us here at American River Urgent Care or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment for work-related injuries.
