Low back pain and its connection to 9/11
Low back pain is one of the musculoskeletal disorders commonly experienced by 9/11 victims. In the days following the 9/11 events, first responders, recovery workers, and survivors faced extreme physical challenges. Many performed physically demanding tasks such as clearing debris and lifting heavy materials. These activities likely led to the development of low back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders.
The following are the common signs and symptoms of low back pain, as listed by the World Health Organization:
- Aching or stiffness in the lower back
- Sharp or shooting pain
- Limited mobility
In some cases, low back pain is mild and occasional, but it may be chronic for others. Moreover, low back pain can last anywhere from less than four weeks to over 12 weeks. Experiencing this kind of pain for prolonged periods can greatly affect one’s daily life.
In addition, low back pain can manifest in different ways. Types of low back pain include:
- Local pain - pain limited to a specific area of the lower back.
- Radiating pain - pain that shoots down from the lower back to the leg.
- Referred pain - pain felt in a different area of the body but originating from the lower back.
How the 9/11 VCF payout helps those with low back pain
While it’s not easy living with low back pain, there is still good news. Individuals experiencing low back pain connected to the 9/11 events can benefit from the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). This program, funded by the federal government, provides financial aid to 9/11 first responders, survivors, and clean-up workers.
The VCF compensates eligible individuals for the following:
- Medical and healthcare expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering associated with chronic low back pain
By filing a VCF claim with the proper legal guidance, you can secure fair compensation to lessen the financial burden of treating your lower back pain.