Yes, they can. In New Jersey, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or other healthcare worker may qualify for permanent disability benefits if a lifting injury causes lasting damage that affects function after treatment reaches a stable point. Patient transfers and other hands-on care duties can lead to back, neck or shoulder injuries that continue to limit movement, lifting or daily work long after the original incident.
Permanent disability depends on lasting limits
New Jersey workers’ compensation law looks at the long-term effects of the injury, not just the fact that patient lifting is part of the job. A CNA, home health aide or assisted living worker may qualify when the injury leaves measurable physical limits that continue after treatment.
A worker usually needs more than temporary pain or strain. The issue is whether the injury still affects movement, strength or daily function after the condition has stabilized.
What injuries may support a permanent disability claim?
A lifting injury may qualify for permanent disability when it causes more than temporary pain. The claim may become stronger if the worker has imaging results, specialist care or permanent restrictions that continue after treatment.
Relevant issues may include:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Shoulder tears or loss of range of motion
- Nerve symptoms that continue into the arm or leg
- Permanent lifting restrictions
- Chronic pain tied to structural injury
These problems may support a claim when they continue to affect the worker after treatment has ended. New Jersey’s injured worker protections outline the basic rights available after a job-related injury.
Medical proof and treatment history can shape the award
Permanent disability cases often turn on medical records, diagnostic studies and whether the worker still has functional loss after treatment. A permanent disability award usually requires proof that the injury still limits movement or work after treatment ends. Cases involving job-related injury claims may require a close comparison of records, restrictions and medical opinions. A lawyer can help review that evidence and build a strong case for permanent disability compensation.