Workers’ compensation provides lost wage benefits if the person is unable to work while recovering from the injury. In some cases, the injury is so severe that the individual is unable to return to their previous job. However, they may be able to work in a different occupation. If they are working light duty and earning less money, workers’ compensation will pay them temporary partial disability benefits. If they have a permanent loss of use to an extremity, they can receive permanent partial disability benefits as well.