How to Prevent Long-Term Disability From Back Injuries   A study from researchers at the University of Washington in Seattle found several risks for long-term (over one year) back injury disability that may help target workers and lower the percentage of back injuries that turn into long-term disability. The study was published in the journal Spine, and found that certain job characteristics, initial disability rating, type of doctor seen initially, psychological factors, and of course, the severity of the injury, were all factors that contributed to a worker's level and degree of disability. The researchers interviewed over 1,800 people who had previously sustained a back injury that prevented them from working for at least three weeks. While the level of injury sustained, previous injuries, and those with certain injury characteristics were major factors for whether a worker would be out for at least a year, they also found other important factors. If a patient saw a chiropractor their chance for long-term disability was decreased. Those who saw specialists as their first doctor had a reduced risk as well, as did patients who were offered light duty tasks from their employers while they were recuperating. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: If I get disability will my children receive benefits? Endometriosis and Filing for Disability After you file disability forms How are Are Social Security And Social Security Disability different? Doing the next disability appeal Social Security Disability SSI - Retroactive Benefits Vs Back Pay Benefits How to file for disability in Michigan Filing for disability with MS, multiple Sclerosis Questions asked at a Social Security Disability or SSI hearing? Forms to appeal a Social Security Disability denial Can you Receive Disability Benefits and have Assets, Investments, a Savings Account? How many days do you have to file a disability appeal? What are some Social Security Disability and SSI myths? Forms to complete when filing, applying for disability Eligibility for disability and who qualifies