Preexisting Conditions And Minnesota Workers’ Compensation
Many injured workers believe they cannot receive workers’ compensation because they already had an injury or health problem. That is not always true.
In Minnesota, a work injury may qualify for benefits when work causes, worsens or speeds up a medical condition. Your job must be a substantial contributing factor in your need for care or your loss of function. It does not need to be the only cause.
This rule follows a principle similar to the “eggshell plaintiff” doctrine. In other words, employers generally take workers as they find them. A health condition that makes you more likely to suffer an injury does not remove your right to seek benefits.
Common Preexisting Conditions In Workers’ Comp Claims
Work injuries may worsen many types of health conditions, including but not limited to:
- Degenerative disc disease: Lifting, bending or falling can increase back pain.
- Arthritis: Repeated motion or physical labor may worsen joint pain and swelling.
- Previous back or neck injuries: A new accident can cause old symptoms to return.
- Prior surgeries: Work may damage or strain a repaired knee, shoulder or spine.
- Diabetes and neuropathy: An injury may increase nerve pain or make healing harder.
- Obesity-related conditions: Physical work can place added strain on joints and the heart.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome: Repeated hand movements may increase pain, tingling or weakness.
- Heart conditions: Heavy exertion or job stress may contribute to heart problems.
- Mental health conditions: A work event may worsen depression, anxiety or PTSD.
- Asthma and respiratory conditions: Dust, smoke or chemicals may trigger breathing problems.
The key question is not simply whether the condition existed before the injury. The claim often depends on whether work caused a clear change in your symptoms, treatment needs or ability to do your job.
How A Prior Condition May Affect Your Claim
A preexisting condition can make a workers’ compensation claim harder to prove. The insurer may argue that your symptoms came from age, normal wear or an old injury rather than your job. It may also claim that work caused only a temporary flare-up.
Your medical records and doctor’s opinion can help show how your condition changed after the work injury. Clear evidence may connect your symptoms, treatment and work limits to the accident or job duties.
Minnesota law may allow apportionment of permanent partial disability benefits in limited cases. This means the insurer may try to separate the disability caused by the prior condition from the disability caused by work.
Talk To An Attorney About Your Claim
A workers’ comp lawyer for preexisting conditions can address disputes over causation, medical evidence and benefits. Contact Bialke Law at 763-571-2410 or send an email to learn how Minnesota law may apply to your situation.