Can You Get Workers’ Comp for a Hernia in California?
If you suffered a hernia on the job—whether from lifting, pushing, or repetitive strain—you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in California. While some hernias are treated and resolved with surgery, others can lead to lasting impairment, especially if there’s nerve damage, recurring bulging, or chronic pain after repair.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
Common causes of work-related hernias
What to expect during treatment
When a hernia leads to permanent impairment under California workers’ comp law
How doctors use the AMA Guides 5th Edition to assign impairment ratings
Jobs That Often Lead to Hernias
We frequently see hernia claims from workers in physically demanding jobs, including:
Warehouse employees lifting heavy boxes
Delivery drivers moving appliances
Construction workers handling rebar, concrete, or tools
Auto mechanics and tire techs working in awkward positions
Janitors and maintenance staff lifting trash bins or supplies
Even if you felt the pain days later, or thought it was a pulled muscle at first, a hernia might still be work-related.
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia happens when internal tissue—usually part of the intestine—pushes through a weak spot or tear in the muscle wall. The most common work-related hernias are:
Inguinal hernias (groin)
Umbilical hernias (navel)
Incisional hernias (through a prior surgical site)
Symptoms might include a visible bulge, pain when lifting or coughing, or pressure in the abdomen or groin area.
Treatment and Temporary Disability
Most hernias require surgery, and recovery can involve weeks or even months off work. During this time, you're entitled to temporary total disability (TTD) benefits if your doctor says you can’t work.
Once you're done healing, the doctor will determine if you have any permanent disability, especially if the hernia recurs or limits your ability to lift, bend, or stand for long periods.
When Does a Hernia Become a Permanent Impairment?
Under California workers’ comp, permanent disability is based on how your injury affects your ability to do everyday activities—not just whether you can return to your exact job.
The AMA Guides 5th Edition defines impairment as a “loss, loss of use, or derangement of any body part.” If your hernia causes functional limitations—like chronic pain, limited mobility, or restrictions against heavy lifting—a doctor may assign a Whole Person Impairment (WPI) rating.
Key factors doctors will assess:
Chronic pain at the surgical site
Reduced strength or endurance
Nerve entrapment or sensory loss
Recurrence of the hernia
Inability to resume prior job duties
The AMA Guides stress that even if a surgery "fixes" the hernia, a permanent impairment rating may still be appropriate if the worker can no longer perform certain daily tasks or job functions. Hernias are assessed based on residual limitations, not just whether the bulge is gone.
Common Disputes We See
Insurance denies the hernia is work-related because the pain came on slowly
The QME or treating doctor says you’re fully recovered, even if you still have pain
You return to modified duty, but the hernia recurs due to overexertion
You get rated 0% impairment despite lasting restrictions
We’ve handled all of these. Hernia cases often come down to how well the injury and job connection are documented—and whether the evaluating doctor properly applies the AMA criteria.
Need Help With Your Work Hernia Claim?
If you’re dealing with a hernia from your job—especially one that’s required surgery or keeps recurring—we can help you fight for the full benefits you’re owed.
We’re former insurance defense lawyers. Now we only represent injured workers. Let our experience work for you.
Learn what a Cumulative Trauma claim is and how that might cause your hernia.
Call or text us today. There’s no fee unless we win. (310)-295-0822.