Being an emergency medical technician (EMT) might have been a dream of yours, but you may not have expected it to be as hard on your body as it is. Between the physical and emotional strain, the job may be rewarding, but it can also be a struggle . Fortunately, your employer should cover you under workers' compensation insurance, so you can get medical help if you're hurt or suffer trauma that leads to a mental disability.
Working as an EMT is backbreaking work
It's true that back injuries are common among EMTs. In a survey of 1,300 EMTs, 47 percent admitted to suffering a back injury while on the job. With such a high percentage noted, it's no surprise that you may have suffered an injury, too.
The spinal column can only take so much strain. If you are trying to carry a patient who is too heavy, twist awkwardly, fall or get hurt on the job in other ways, you may need ongoing therapy to help stretch and strengthen your spine.
Stress-related injuries can be compensated, too
Another thing EMTs need to watch out for is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other stress-related problems on the job. A frantic emergency can be traumatic, and even if you're doing your job, it doesn't mean you won't be affected. You deserve to get the right care if your body has reacted negatively and you're having trouble with panic attacks, nightmares and other symptoms of PTSD.
Your attorney can help you apply for workers' compensation after you're hurt on the job. With the support you need, you can work on recovering from your injuries.
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