Workers’ Compensation and Secondary Injuries: What You Should Know

Recovering from an injury sometimes requires medical devices such as braces, slings, or supports. While these devices are meant to aid healing, in rare cases they may contribute to new accidents — for example, by affecting mobility or vision.

Are Secondary Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation?

In many situations, workers’ compensation may cover additional injuries that are a direct result of treatment for a work-related injury. Examples can include:

• Falling because of limited mobility from a prescribed brace

• Developing shoulder strain while using crutches

• Experiencing complications related to surgery or rehabilitation

Why Documentation Matters

If a secondary injury occurs:

• Seek medical care immediately

• Document how the injury happened

• Report the new incident to your employer

Accurate records help determine whether the new condition is connected to the original work injury.

The Role of Workers’ Comp Boards

Each state has its own rules about when secondary injuries are covered. In New York, the Workers’ Compensation Board evaluates whether the new injury is related to the original claim.

Request an Appointment

If you’ve been injured at work, we can help connect you with a trusted provider in your area. Request an appointment today, and our team will connect you directly with the provider’s office.

This blog from Pain and Injury is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Recovery is not guaranteed, and each patient’s results may vary. For official information on benefits, please refer to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.