The Illinois Industrial Commission ruled that claimant’s activity of closing an elevated cab door placed him in an awkward twisting and rotating position, thereby increasing his risk of injury beyond that of the general public.

Claimant testified he exited the driver’s side of a truck cab and was facing the door. As he shut the door, he pivoted to his right. He immediately experienced pain in his low back. He was diagnosed with a herniated disc and underwent two surgeries and a course of physical therapy.

The arbitrator awarded temporary total and permanent partial disability benefits along with medical expenses, finding claimant’s activity of closing the elevated cab door placed him in an awkward twisting and rotating position. The position increased the risk of injury to claimant beyond that of the general public.

Upon review, the Commission affirmed and adopted the decision of the arbitrator.