Living With Chronic Pain After a Louisiana Oilfield Accident
Louisiana’s oil and gas industry is a vital part of the state’s economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing significantly to energy production. Based on this, with the inherent risks involved in oilfield work, accidents can occur, leading to life-altering consequences, such as chronic pain.
If you or someone you love was injured in an oilfield because of someone else’s negligence, choose an experienced Louisiana oilfield accident injury attorney who can protect your rights and aggressively negotiate the highest possible settlement with the liable parties on your behalf.
What Does Chronic Pain Entail Following Oilfield Accidents in Louisiana?
Oilfield accidents can result in a range of injuries, from fractures and burns to spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. The severity and type of injury can contribute to the development of chronic pain. It refers to persistent and long-lasting pain that individuals may experience as a result of injuries sustained while working.
Chronic pain is characterized by its persistence, typically lasting for an extended period, often beyond the normal healing time for the initial injury. It may manifest as a constant ache, sharp pain, or discomfort that recurs intermittently.
Types of Chronic Pain
- Neuropathic Pain: Neuropathic pain results from damage or dysfunction in the nervous system, leading to abnormal signaling of pain sensations. It is often described as shooting, burning, or tingling.
- Musculoskeletal Pain: Musculoskeletal pain affects the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and other components of the musculoskeletal system. It can present as aching, soreness, or stiffness.
- Inflammatory Pain: Inflammatory pain arises from inflammation in the body, triggering pain signals. It is often associated with redness, swelling, and warmth at the affected site.
- Nociceptive Pain: Nociceptive pain results from tissue damage or inflammation, activating nociceptors (pain receptors) in the body. It’s often described as a throbbing or aching sensation.
Tips to Deal with Long-Term Pain if You Were Injured in a Louisiana Oilfield Accident
Living with chronic pain following an oilfield accident can be challenging, but with proper strategies and support, individuals can enhance their quality of life. Here are some tips to help manage and cope with chronic pain:
Obtain Professional Medical Help
You should consult healthcare professionals, including pain specialists, to develop a comprehensive pain management plan. There are several hospitals, such as the Ochsner Medical Center and Baton Rouge General Medical Center where you can explore various treatment options, including medications, physical therapy, and interventional procedures, to address the specific causes of your pain.
Engage in Physical Activity
Participate in low-impact exercises or physical activities that are suitable for your condition. Activities like swimming, walking, or gentle stretching can help maintain flexibility, strengthen muscles, and improve overall well-being.
Practice Stress-Reducing Techniques
Chronic pain is often linked to stress. Incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness to promote relaxation and alleviate mental strain.
Use Assistive Devices
You should consider using assistive devices or tools that can help alleviate strain on the body. This may include ergonomic furniture, braces, or mobility aids customized to your specific needs.
Build a Support System
Cultivate a strong support system involving friends, family, and support groups. Sharing your experiences and feelings with others who understand can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Explore Legal Options
If the chronic pain is a result of an oilfield accident, explore legal avenues for compensation. You should speak with a personal injury attorney to discuss potential workers’ compensation or personal injury claims.
Legal Considerations After Getting Injured in Louisiana Oilfield Accidents
Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It typically covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages. You may need to notify your employer, get medical attention, and file a workers’ compensation claim to initiate the process.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the chronic pain is a result of negligence by a third party (other than your employer or a co-worker), you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. This could include equipment manufacturers, contractors, or other entities whose negligence contributed to your injuries. In a personal injury claim, you can acquire compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Product Liability Lawsuit
If defective equipment or products contributed to your oilfield injury and subsequent chronic pain, you may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty equipment.
Long-Term Disability Insurance
If you have long-term disability insurance as part of your employee benefits or have purchased it independently, you may be able to file a claim to receive income replacement benefits due to chronic pain-related disability. You should review your insurance policy and consult with an attorney if you encounter challenges in obtaining long-term disability benefits.
It’s essential to consult with a competent attorney with experience in personal injury and workplace accidents to determine the most appropriate legal recourse for your specific situation.
Get a Free Case Evaluation from Our Seasoned Oilfield Injury Attorneys in Louisiana
The reputable Louisiana oilfield accident lawyers at the Trainor Law Firm, LLC possess in-depth knowledge of oilfield injury cases and necessary resources. Our track record of large settlements and verdicts speaks to our commitment to protecting our clients’ rights, even in the face of complicated legal scenarios. Schedule your free case review with our lawyers today. Call us at 985-545-3422 or contact us online.
