If you have recently suffered an ACL or MCL tear on the job, you may have concerns about obtaining proper treatments. How are you going to pay for them and will workers’ compensation cover any necessary medical procedures?
Understanding some basics of Minnesota workers’ compensation law can help put your mind at ease while you focus on recovering from your knee injury. However, hiring an experienced attorney is the most foolproof step you can take to ensure your eligibility and that the process is done correctly.
What treatments do I need for my injury?
You should start by using the R.I.C.E. method, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. While this is not a lasting solution for healing your injury, it can help you ease the pain before seeking a more permanent treatment solution. If you have suffered an ACL tear, this type of injury will not heal on its own and requires surgery. An MCL tear can heal on its own after some rest and recovery, but this could take several months and may ultimately still require surgery. After both ACL and MCL tear operations, you will likely need physical therapy to regain mobility and strength.
Does workers’ compensation cover ACL and MCL procedures?
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you do not have to prove fault to be eligible to receive benefits after sustaining an injury on the job. According to Minnesota workers’ compensation law, employers must provide you with any reasonable treatment necessary to help you recover from the effects of your workplace injury. This includes the surgical procedures and physical therapy you may need to heal your ACL or MCL tear.
The workers’ compensation system exists to help you through this difficult time. Make sure you are getting the proper benefits and treatment that Minnesota law provides.
