Questions in CT

[pet713]

I apologize if any of these questions have been covered already; I did read many threads and haven't found exactly what I am looking for.

I was injured at work in dec of 09. MRI shows a bulging & torn disc @ L4-L5 with significant pressure on the nerve and degeneration. I've had 2 epidural steroid injects; the 2nd on 5/6 which inflammed the nerve and caused me a slight drop foot. Both my neuro and pain doc's agreed the injection caused inflammation of the nerve; I was released to work with minimal restrictions, but they would not take me back. Both doc's also agreed I would benefit from a 3rd injection; which was denied by IC as 'not medically necssary to prevent surgery.' The foot drop has since passed and I am having significantly less leg pain. I have stopped all prescription pain meds for fear of dependance - 6 months is too long IMO, especially if advil and a nap takes care of things


I saw my neuro on 6/1 who was quite annoyed with the injection being denied as well as my employer; he took me completely out of work and ordered PT - I was excited to start PT, I think strengthing up will help immensely and get me back closer to normal.

I have not received a check for TTD since 6/1 and they have not approved my PT yet. Emergency hearing is scheduled for Thursday and I have an attorney. All of my bills have been late for the past 3 months because IC doesn't want to pay me.

sorry for the length, here are my questions:

1. originally released to light duty in May with restritions that do not require my employer to modify my job in any way to accommodate them (I have a desk job and don't sit for longer than 20 mins at a time). Yet, they stated there was no work for me and the IC adjuster told my lawyer they do not want me back until I am 100%. Can they do that? I'm willing and able to do the job I was hired for.

2. I was told to wear 'business casual' to the hearing. I work in an office and I dress respectfully, but with my injury I can't wear the shoes I used to...sneakers are my friend. Will it be inappropriate of me to wear tasteful jeans, top, etc? It is what I've been wearing to work for the past 3 years. (sorry if that is a silly question)

3. I want to go to PT; I feel I will gain more strength back and avoid surgery - I'm getting married in Oct. and surgery is the last thing I need. Should I say this at the hearing?

Again, I apologize if these things have been covered and for the length!

I live in CT and I'm a 30yo female - too young for back problems!

Thanks in advance for any help!

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

Just wear nice casual clothes, leave the jeans home. if sneekers are to be worn then wear them, don't think they will look at your shoes as much.

ADA web site would be a good place to chech, as you said you can do your work, so your employer doesn't need to prevent you from working, and they are wrong in doing so.

As for PT, you have to wait for the approval, same as the medical treatment.

[pet713]

Thanks so much! I will take your advice on the clothes and I'm going to the ADA website now.