The loss of a limb in a work-related accident will have a profound effect on a victim’s life. First, there is the obvious fact that recovery time for such a devastating injury can be long and arduous. And unlike, say, a broken bone, amputated body parts do not heal. And while severed limbs, hands, and feet can be replaced with prosthetics, the process can be complicated as the patient must learn how to function with the artificial substitute.
But in the case of amputations, the psychological issues faced by the worker can be just as daunting as the physical issues. A worker is often required to make many adjustments to regain his ability to perform his or her daily tasks. Doing this can create some psychological consequences which include depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, grief and body image disturbances.
So there are multiple facets to treating those who have suffered amputations, which can involve physical, psychological, rehabilitative and vocational therapies. And sadly, sometimes an amputation can leave a worker unable to continue working in his or her profession.
The financial costs incurred for medical care, recovery, treatment and time lost from work caused by an amputation injury can be overwhelmingly high. As such, it is vital that the injured worker received and had access to all available benefits afforded by workers’ compensation. And if you or a loved one is contending with the aftermath of a work-related amputation, you may want to contact a workers’ compensation attorney who can put forth an effort to see you are properly accommodated.