If your light duty job goes against your doctor’s note, that is a problem. In a D.C. workers’ compensation case, light duty work is supposed to follow the limits your doctor gives you. Your work note should explain what you can and cannot do while you recover, like lifting limits, standing limits, or reduced hours. If the job you are given does not fit those limits, it is not the right job for your injury.
What To Do If Your Light Duty Job Does Not Fit Your Doctor’s Note
Look at the actual job duties, not just the title. Then compare those duties to your doctor’s note.
If the job goes beyond your limits, tell your doctor exactly what the work involves. Be specific. If needed, your doctor can update your work note so it clearly says what you can and cannot do.
Signs Your Light Duty Job Goes Against Your Doctor’s Note
- your doctor says no lifting over 10 pounds, but the job still has you lifting or carrying things
- your note says you need a sitting option, but you are still on your feet most of the day
- your doctor limits your hours, but you are scheduled for full shifts
- your doctor says no climbing, but the job still has you using ladders or stairs throughout the day
- your note says no overhead work, but you are still reaching, stocking, or lifting above shoulder level
Going Back To Work Too Early Can Make Your Injury Worse
A lot of injured workers feel pressure to go back before they are ready. But if you go back too early and the job goes against your doctor’s note, you can make the injury worse and slow down your recovery. Light duty is supposed to help you return safely, not push you into work your body cannot handle yet.
Stay In Contact With Your Doctor If Light Duty Feels Too Hard
If you are trying light duty and you can tell your body cannot handle it, stay in contact with your doctor. Do not assume you just have to push through it.
Your doctor needs to know if the job is causing pain, making your symptoms worse, or asking more of your body than you can safely do. If needed, your doctor can change your work note and make your limits clearer.
Talk To Donahoe Kearney If Your Light Duty Job Goes Against Your Doctor’s Note
If your employer gives you a light duty job that does not fit your doctor’s note, do not try to handle it by yourself while you are hurt. We help injured workers deal with light duty problems, push back when they are being sent back too soon, and deal with the insurance company when the job being offered is not right for the injury.
Call 202-393-3320 or book your free consultation here: Book Free Consultation.
Watch Attorney Frank Kearney Explain More About Light Duty
If you want a better understanding of how light duty works in a workers’ compensation case, Attorney Frank Kearney breaks it down in this video: