Herniated Disc or Spinal Injury? Get Your Certificate Today.

Spinal Injuries and Workers Compensation in NSW

Herniated discs and other spinal injuries are among the most serious and debilitating workplace injuries. The intervertebral disc can herniate (bulge or rupture) due to acute trauma (heavy lifting, falls) or progressive degeneration aggravated by repetitive work tasks. When a disc herniates, it can compress nearby spinal nerves, causing severe pain, numbness, weakness, and functional limitation.

Under NSW workers compensation, spinal injuries — including herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and vertebral fractures — are compensable when caused by or substantially contributed to by work duties.

Types of Spinal Injuries Covered

Symptoms

• Severe localised pain in the neck, mid-back, or lower back
• Radiating pain into arms (cervical) or legs (lumbar) — sciatica
• Numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in extremities
• Muscle weakness in arms or legs
• Difficulty standing, walking, or maintaining posture
• Reduced range of spinal movement

What Your Certificate Will Include

• Diagnosis based on clinical assessment and any available imaging
• Work capacity — most patients with acute disc herniations are initially unfit for pre-injury duties
• Restrictions: no lifting, no bending, no twisting, no prolonged sitting or standing, no vibration exposure
• Referral for MRI (if not already done) to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment
• Referral to neurosurgeon or spinal surgeon if indicated
• Physiotherapy and pain management recommendations

How Claims Doctor Helps

Claims Doctor provides same-day video consultations for spinal injuries. Your doctor — who has neurosurgery registrar experience — will assess your injury, issue your Certificate of Capacity during the call, and arrange imaging and specialist referrals. For spinal injuries, early and accurate documentation is critical for ensuring your claim progresses smoothly.