Anyone else taken off work on disability? (vent)

FirstTimePregnancy

A previous back injury from way back in 2001 has come back to haunt me since becoming pregnant with my first (and probably only) child.  I have been in extreme pain with that, paired with terrible sciatic nerve pain....having been seeing a chiropractor and just started physical therapy.  Today I saw my OB and mentioned how the pain has been getting progressively worse and he wants to take me off on disability now.  He wanted to do so today, but I was able to convince him to give me a week so I have time to speak with my employer, rather than just springing this on them.  So I am seeing him next Tuesday and he will be taking me off then at 29 weeks.

I'm so emotional and frustrated about the whole thing.  I had planned on working up until I went into labor (or as close as I could get) and had no clue that this stupid old injury might play a part in my pregnancy.  I dread speaking with my employer about this because I feel that they will be angry with me.  Add to that the fact that they can apparently terminate my employment after 12 weeks off (even on disability), makes things that much worse.  I carry the insurance for our family, and we are not looking forward to paying for Cobra to continue coverage once they lay me off (which is enevitable I think). 

Anyone else being taken out for one reason or another?  If so, what are your concerns.  Thanks for listening!

MLSF

Sorry to hear...could you be put on a modified schedule or if you sit at a desk all day, get a sit-to-stand desk installed.  Maybe your dr could write you off for a week or two then try and go back w/ gradual return?   GL

huahualove

The same thing happened to me where I was put on disability before I was planning on. I tried going back to work last week but didn't even last a full day. I'm going to go over the 12 weeks that FMLA allows so it is scary for sure. I'm the one that holds the insurance. There is really nothing that I can do but rest and do what will be best for the baby now. I'm hoping my employer will be as understanding as they can be. Since I'm normally a very hard worker I'm hoping that they won't think of getting rid of me once the 12 weeks is up.

blushingbride_08

My doctor put me on disability early but that's what I wanted.  I was having back issues and just couldn't do the commute to work.  I had given my employer a heads up that I may be leaving earlier but my manager ignored me and assumed I would be sticking with my original leave date.  So he was surprised when I told him I was not returning to work.  I do get 12 weeks of FMLA but once that runs out I also get an additional 12 weeks of NJ family leave.  You may want to check if there is a leave for the state you live in.  And I doubt employers would really fired you if you are a good worker.  Good luck!

madhatter2003

I'd see what modifications your work can do first....not sure what line of work you are in, but if you sit all day maybe try new chair/desk arrangement.

 I had horrible sciatic nerve pain and the only thing that helped was massage therapy. Physical therapy didn't help me. I'd ask your chiro for a rec and try that too.

JaimeG183

I'm also having a lot of pain- SPD and sciatica.

I started half days today and will be starting my maternity leave march 19th.

Could you try shorter days first?

FirstTimePregnancy

I wish that modifications were possible.  Unfortunately, I don't have a desk job...if I did, it might be a different story.  I work for a non-profit and am required to drive around all over town (and beyond) to see people on a regular basis.  The constant movement, in and out of the car motion, and driving in general is killing my back.  Not to mention that even just walking is doing a number on me now.  With each step I get a shooting pain in my behind that travels down either one or both of my legs.  If there was a way to, "water down" my job so that I could hang in there longer, trust me, I would certainly do it.  Thanks for your advice though! 

appylovee

I was taken out of work at 25 weeks. According to my state they can not fire you for being out of work, as long as it is mandated by a dr. They must offer some sort of job to you, if yours is no longer avliable. Thats how it works in the state of ri. I would definatly check with your state, to see if your company can legally fire you. My job doesnt offer maternity leave or have fmla as I work for a small business and my job is gaureentied when I can go back.

LindsB314

This also happened to me and i was put out at 30 weeks for a preexisting condition. My job expects me to go back to work 3-4 weeks (depending on when lo decides to arrive)  after i delivery. I am nervous abt leaving lo so soon. I actually posted something about it and a fellow bumpie mentioned going back part time so I'm hoping I can do that with my job. It really sucks tho and I wish things were different. Good luck to you!!

livinreality

FirstTimePregnancy:

I wish that modifications were possible.  Unfortunately, I don't have a desk job...if I did, it might be a different story.  I work for a non-profit and am required to drive around all over town (and beyond) to see people on a regular basis.  The constant movement, in and out of the car motion, and driving in general is killing my back.  Not to mention that even just walking is doing a number on me now.  With each step I get a shooting pain in my behind that travels down either one or both of my legs.  If there was a way to, "water down" my job so that I could hang in there longer, trust me, I would certainly do it.  Thanks for your advice though! 

I would talk to your HR department, you might be able to do half days or 2-3 days a week, they are probably unprepared to completely lose you so in order to not have too much back log work with you... and even if it buys you another month, that gets you a little longer before you go completely on disability.  

My mom worked for a company that has people who travel and upon doctors orders they bring people into the office and give them a modified work load, but it is only upon doctors orders... 

So sorry you are having to deal with this, I had severe back pain with DS1, I could barely walk and was miserable, did some PT, as well as massage to help a little... but if it gives you any hope I have not had any problems with my back and LO2.  The OB says something about each baby carries different.

Katy&KT

I was pulled out of work and put on disability at 35 weeks due to high blood pressure (I am at home on bed rest until I deliver the baby) and I was pleasantly surprised by how helpful my employer is being.  

My STD covers me up to 12 weeks, so I am basically not losing out on any pay (all time prior to having the baby that I am disabled, plus the 6-8 weeks after having the baby will be covered).  I also talked to them and told them that I mentally would not be ready to return to work less than 12 weeks after having the baby and they said that would still let me take 12 weeks off post baby and keep all of my benefits in place.  

All you can do is talk to them and see what your options are-you might be surprised also.  LIke PP recommended, if they can only hold your job for 12 weeks see if you can be placed on an alternative job duty that could lessen your back pain, or possibly a reduced/work from home schedule.  

Good luck!