Court, With 'Reluctant' Concurrence, Upholds Denial of Benefits for Worker's Back Complaints

The Arkansas Court of Appeals ruled that a worker failed to prove he suffered a compensable thoracic spine injury as a result of a work-related fall. Case: Watson v. Highland Pellets LLC, No. CV-21-253, 03/16/2022, published. Facts: Carl Watson worked for Highland Pellets LLC as a maintenance technician. On Dec. 7, 2018, he was working on a piece of mobile equipment, lost his footing on the stairs and fell approximately 9 feet. He was taken to Jefferson Regional Medical Center, X-rayed, and treated for multiple rib fractures on his right side. Highland accepted liability for Watso...