Work-related injuries can sideline and potentially end careers. The most promising of professional pursuits can lead to physical damage. The aftermath may force dedicated professionals to be out of work and temporarily or permanently unable to perform the tasks necessary to do their jobs.
Shoulder injuries are near the top of the most common injuries workers can suffer. Categories include dislocations, fractures, and impingements. However, rotator cuff injuries are one of the most prominent, affecting muscles and tendons that connect the arm to the shoulder socket.
Most likely to suffer shoulder damage
Those most susceptible to these types of injuries include construction workers, carpenters, and those that perform heavy lifting, particularly those who perform swift upward movements using their shoulders.
However, rotator cuff injuries are not exclusive to work settings. Repetition in specific tasks, lifting heavy objects, or a slip-and-fall mishap can result in severe and painful physical damage.
When an accident occurs that impacts the shoulder joint, victims suffer significant pain and range of motion limitations. The simple act of lifting and rotating shoulders results in pain so excruciating that those suffering from the injury find it difficult to sleep.
Typical injuries and diagnoses
Injuries take the form of tears of the rotator cuff or inflammation, formally known as tendinitis. The difference is based on the sudden nature of the damage. Tears are sudden, while tendinitis is the result of gradual irritation that progresses.
Diagnosing rotator cuff damage is done through X-rays, musculoskeletal (MSK) shoulder ultrasounds, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs).
While employers can put up obstacles to secure workers’ compensation benefits, the help of an attorney can help employees even the odds they face following a serious, job-related injury.
