Hernia Injuries

A hernia is when part of an internal organ protrudes through the muscle tissue or membrane which usually protects it and keeps it in place, the most common hernias occurring in the abdomen and the discs of the spine, causing sciatica.

Symptoms vary from a mild feeling of pressure at the point where the hernia occurred, to severe pain and a visible lump; more severe hernia cases can result in organ dysfunction. Less severe hernias can be manipulated back into the correct place by a doctor; more serious 'strangulated' hernias can limit blood supply to organs and will need emergency surgery to prevent gangrene, multiple organ dysfunction and even (in extreme cases) death. Regardless of the severity of a hernia injury, it should always be treated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Hernias can be suffered as a result of poor manual handling at work. If you can prove that you suffered a hernia due to your working conditions forcing poor manual handling (for instance, being asked to regularly lift very heavy objects, repeatedly twisting and moving in uncomfortable ways to complete your job, as can happen in manufacturing plants, factories, etc.) then you can claim compensation for your hernia as an accident at work.

Health and Safety regulations in the workplace impose clear guidelines on employers when it comes to working conditions, and in particular manual handling training and equipment to help people carry our their job without harming themselves. Unfortunately there are those employers that flout these regulations and if you have suffered a hernia as a result, then speak to us about a compensation claim.