Average Spinal Cord Stimulator Workers Comp Settlement in North Carolina (2025)

Spinal cord stimulators are often used in workers’ compensation cases to treat chronic pain resulting from severe workplace injuries. These devices are designed to help individuals manage persistent pain by delivering electrical impulses to the spinal cord that reduce the perception of pain signals. If you are recovering from a work-related back injury, it is important to understand the average spinal cord stimulator workers’ compensation settlement in North Carolina.

Why Spinal Cord Stimulators Are Common in Workers’ Compensation Cases

Severe workplace injuries, such as those involving the back, neck, or spine, may result in long-term pain that is difficult to manage with traditional treatments. When medications, physical therapy, and other interventions fail to provide relief, a spinal cord stimulator may be recommended.

The cost of these devices, combined with the need for surgical implantation and potential complications, can significantly increase the value of a workers’ compensation claim. However, no two cases are the same, and settlements vary widely.

Factors That Influence Settlement Amounts in North Carolina

Because spinal cord stimulators require surgical implantation and ongoing maintenance, the financial stakes in these cases can be significant. Insurance companies often scrutinize these claims closely, challenging the necessity of the device or disputing the severity of the injury.

A successful settlement relies on detailed documentation and a thorough understanding of the factors that influence the final amount. Several of these factors can include how serious the injury is, medical costs, and the long-term implications for the injured worker. They can include:

• Severity of the injury: The extent of the injury can play a serious role in the settlement outcome. More severe injuries, particularly those resulting in chronic pain or long-term disability, tend to result in higher settlements. For example, an injury causing nerve damage or spinal cord compression may necessitate a spinal cord stimulator, increasing the overall claim value.
• Cost of the spinal cord stimulator: Spinal cord stimulators are expensive medical devices. The cost of the device itself, the surgical procedure to implant it, and ongoing maintenance or replacements are all considered when calculating a settlement. Complications requiring further medical intervention can raise the settlement amount.
• Impact on work capacity: Injuries requiring a spinal cord stimulator often limit a worker’s ability to perform their job. If the injury results in partial or total disability, settlements typically include compensation for lost earning capacity. Workers who are unable to return to their previous role or who face reduced income potential often receive higher payouts.
• Ongoing medical needs: Spinal cord stimulators require long-term care, including follow-up appointments, adjustments, and possible replacement surgeries. These future medical costs are factored into the settlement to ensure the injured worker can continue managing their condition without financial strain.
• Insurance and negotiation factors: The employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate also influence settlement amounts. In cases where the insurer disputes the necessity of the spinal cord stimulator or the severity of the injury, legal representation becomes essential.

Why Settlement Amounts Vary

No two workers’ compensation cases are identical, which makes it difficult to determine an exact average for settlements involving spinal cord stimulators. While some cases result in six-figure settlements due to severe injuries and permanent disability, others may be more modest if the worker can recover and return to work relatively quickly.

Factors such as the strength of medical evidence, the quality of documentation, and the specific circumstances of the injury all contribute to this variability. Settlements often reflect the negotiation process. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts by challenging the necessity of a spinal cord stimulator or arguing that the injury does not warrant long-term care.

The Role of Legal Representation

Navigating the workers’ compensation process can be challenging, especially when dealing with the complexities of a spinal cord stimulator claim. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can play a vital role in securing a fair settlement. Legal representation ensures that all medical expenses, future care needs, and lost earning potential are accurately documented and presented during negotiations.

Attorneys also help address disputes with insurance companies, advocate for the injured worker’s rights, and handle appeals if a claim is denied. Their experience can prevent delays and ensure that the settlement reflects the true financial and physical damage the injury has had on your life.

FAQs

What Is the Average Settlement for a Spinal Cord Stimulator Workers’ Comp Claim in North Carolina?

The settlement amount for a spinal cord stimulator workers’ compensation claim varies widely based on factors such as the cost of the device, medical expenses, lost wages, and the severity of the injury. There is no fixed average, as every case is unique. Settlements may also include compensation for future treatments, maintenance of the stimulator, and any ongoing disability resulting from the injury.

How Does Workers’ Compensation Handle Spinal Cord Stimulator Costs in North Carolina?

Workers’ compensation in North Carolina typically covers the cost of a spinal cord stimulator if it is deemed medically necessary for treating a workplace injury. This includes the procedure to implant the device, follow-up care, and potential maintenance or replacement costs. Approval often requires strong medical evidence, including documentation from the treating physician and insurance carrier authorization.

Why Might Workers’ Compensation Deny a Spinal Cord Stimulator in North Carolina?

Workers’ compensation may deny a spinal cord stimulator if they dispute the medical necessity of the procedure or argue it is unrelated to the workplace injury. Denials often stem from conflicting opinions between the treating physician and the insurance company’s doctor. Providing comprehensive medical documentation and seeking additional evaluations can help overcome such denials.

What Factors Influence Spinal Cord Stimulator Settlement Amounts in North Carolina?

Several factors influence settlement amounts, including the total cost of the spinal cord stimulator, lost wages due to the injury, and the extent of permanent disability. The severity of the workplace injury, the need for ongoing medical care, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate also play a role. Legal representation can help ensure all these factors are properly addressed in your settlement.

Schedule Your Spinal Cord Stimulator Attorney Consultation Today

Securing experienced legal representation through Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC ensures your claim is handled correctly and that your rights are protected throughout the process. Contact our team today to discuss your case and take the first step toward obtaining the benefits you deserve.