Burns and Long-Term Disability

Burns are one of the most common types of injury in the United States, with about 486,000 people receiving medical care for burns each year. While some burns are minor and heal quickly, others can cause permanent physical and psychological damage. Severe burns may prevent a person from returning to work—temporarily or even permanently.

If you are unable to work due to burn injuries, you may qualify for long-term disability (LTD) benefits. This article explains the types of burns, how they can impact your ability to work, and what you need to know when filing an LTD claim based on burn injuries.

Types of Burns

Burns are classified based on the depth of tissue damage. The severity of the burn often determines whether long-term disability benefits may be available.

First-Degree Burns

• Also called superficial burns
• Affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis)
• Cause redness, mild swelling, and discomfort
• Typically heal with at-home care and do not leave permanent damage

Second-Degree Burns

• Also called partial-thickness burns
• Extend into the second layer of skin (dermis)
• Cause swelling, blistering, and severe pain
• May result in permanent scarring or sensitivity
• Often require medical attention and longer recovery periods

Third-Degree Burns

• Also called full-thickness burns
• Damage all layers of skin and may affect fat, muscle, and bone
• Area may appear white, black, or leathery
• Often cause nerve damage, leading to numbness
• Require intensive medical treatment and may cause long-lasting impairments

Burn injuries can take days or weeks to show their full extent, so early medical evaluation is critical—even if the burn seems mild at first.

How Burn Injuries Are Diagnosed and Treated

Diagnosis

Severe burns must be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the degree of tissue damage and potential complications. Diagnosis is typically based on physical examination, but additional tests like CT scans, MRIs, or blood and urine tests may be needed to check for complications:

• Infections (such as sepsis)
• Internal injuries (especially with electrical burns)
• Fluid and electrolyte imbalances

Patients with serious burns are often referred to specialized burn units for care.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and can include:

• Topical creams and anti-inflammatory medications for minor burns
• IV fluids and antibiotics to prevent organ failure and infection
• Debridement to remove dead tissue and encourage healing
• Skin grafts or plastic surgery to repair damaged areas and improve mobility
• Pain management and anti-anxiety medications
• Physical and occupational therapy to rebuild strength, range of motion, and daily function

Burn recovery is often long and difficult. Even with treatment, patients may experience chronic pain, scarring, limited mobility, and psychological trauma.

Do Burn Injuries Qualify for Long-Term Disability?

They can—depending on the severity of your condition and the terms of your long-term disability insurance policy.

If your injuries prevent you from performing your job duties, you may qualify for LTD benefits. Most group policies define “disability” in two phases:

• Own Occupation (typically the first 24 months): You must show that you cannot perform the duties of your specific job.
• Any Occupation (typically after 24 months): You must prove that you are unable to perform the duties of any occupation for which you are reasonably suited by education, experience, or training.

Burns that cause chronic pain, limited range of motion, functional impairments, or ongoing medical treatment may satisfy this definition—especially when combined with related mental health conditions like PTSD or depression.

Functional Limitations Caused by Burn Injuries

The location and extent of your burns can significantly affect your ability to work. For example:

• Burns to the hands or arms may affect typing, lifting, writing, or fine motor skills
• Burns to the legs or feet can make standing, walking, or climbing stairs difficult
• Facial burns can interfere with vision, breathing, hearing, speaking, or eating
• Extensive scarring or contractures may reduce range of motion or cause chronic pain
• Psychological effects can also limit work capacity

Even after the wounds heal, scar tissue may continue to cause pain, stiffness, or hypersensitivity—making it difficult to return to work in a full or consistent capacity.

RELATED POST: Why Your Doctor Must Document Your Functional Limitations

Proving Disability Due to Burns

Step 1: Review Your LTD Policy

Request a full copy of your policy from your employer’s HR department or insurer. Look for:

• Definitions of “disability” or “disabled”
• Any exclusions for injuries, pre-existing conditions, or cosmetic impairments
• Deadlines for applying and appealing
• Mental health limitations (if PTSD or depression is a factor)

Request the policy in writing to begin a clear paper trail. Some HR departments may delay providing the document if they suspect you’re preparing a claim.

Step 2: Submit Comprehensive Medical Evidence

The insurance company will require detailed medical documentation to evaluate your claim. This may include:

• Records of emergency treatment or hospitalization
• Specialist evaluations (e.g., from a burn center)
• Surgical reports (such as skin grafts)
• Physical or occupational therapy records
• Photos of burn injuries or scarring
• Psychiatric records, if applicable
• Medication history and side effects

Your medical records should clearly show how your injuries prevent you from working. The more specific your evidence, the better.

Step 3: Complete a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment

An RFC assessment evaluates how your condition affects your ability to perform work-related tasks. This may include:

• Weight limits for lifting or carrying
• Sitting/standing/walking tolerance
• Reaching and grasping ability
• Fine motor skills
• Balance and coordination
• Sensory issues such as impaired vision or hearing
• Cognitive and psychological limitations if applicable

This assessment can be completed by your treating provider and is crucial in supporting your claim.

RELATED POST: Residual Functional Capacity Forms [Download Free RFC Form]

Should You Resign From Your Job?

Not before speaking with a disability attorney. If your employer asks you to resign, it may seem like a formality—but it could hurt your LTD claim. “Resigning” implies that you voluntarily left your job, which insurers may interpret as unrelated to your disability.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Insurance companies often deny legitimate LTD claims, especially when the condition is expected to improve or involves subjective symptoms like pain or fatigue.

If your claim has been denied, working with a disability attorney can significantly improve your chances of success. An experienced attorney will:

• Help you gather strong medical evidence
• Communicate with the insurer on your behalf
• Write your appeal letter
• Represent you in federal court if necessary

The Ortiz Law Firm represents claimants nationwide and operates on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Contact Us Today

Severe burns can change your life forever. If your injuries prevent you from working, you don’t have to face the disability claims process alone.

Call the Ortiz Law Firm at (888) 321-8131 for a free case evaluation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the long-term disability benefits you deserve.