Workers’ Comp Awarded for Fire Fighter with Medial Epicondylitis
Medial Epicondylitis. Sounds contagious, right? It is actually a condition more commonly referred to as “golfer’s elbow” or “baseball elbow”. This condition is characterized by pain from the inside (medial) elbow to the wrist which results from damage to the tendons that bend the wrist towards the palm.
Chronic Injuries from Job Stresses
While this condition is common among golfers, tennis players and baseball players, Ken Berman was recently able to attribute this condition to the long term effects of the duties involved in fire fighting. Specifically, the Claimant was diagnosed with right medial epicondylitis and was forced to miss time from work as a result. Ken made the argument before the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission that this condition arose as a result of the Claimant’s twenty one (21) years of service as a fire fighter during which time the Claimant carried heavy equipment on a frequent basis. It was also pointed out that over the many years the fire fighter rolled hoses and carried ladders. The Employer/Insurer contested the claim from the start and argued that the Claimant’s condition did not arise out of the course of the fire fighter’s employment.
Not only was Ken able convince the Commissioner that the Claimant’s condition was related to the repetitive occupational stresses and strains of fire fighting, he was able to get the Claimant reimbursed for time lost from work. In addition, he successfully argued that the Clamant should be compensated for the overtime wages lost while assigned to a light duty position over six (6) month period. Finally, the Commission Ordered that all related medical expenses be paid by the Employer/Insurer for the remainder of the Claimant’s life. The fire fighter is currently awaiting a second hearing before the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission to determine permanent partial disability benefits.
The Right Attorney for Fire Fighters
Having a strong knowledge of the law, coupled with extensive understanding of the day to day activities of fire fighters, is what gives Ken Berman’s clients the advantage when it comes to their day in Court. If you believe you have suffered an occupational disease or condition as a result of your employment as a fire fighter, call Ken today for a free consultation.
