Work-related shoulder injuries are a common and often debilitating consequence of accidents on the job. Whether you work in a physically demanding profession like construction or in an office setting, shoulder injuries can happen to anyone.
Let’s take a closer look at Missouri Workers Compensation shoulder injury cases and explore the different types of shoulder injuries that can occur due to work accidents, their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and most importantly, how to prevent them.
Types of Shoulder Injuries
Rotator Cuff Tears
– Rotator cuff injuries are among the most prevalent shoulder injuries in the workplace.
– They can result from repetitive overhead motions or sudden, forceful movements.
– Symptoms include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.
Shoulder Dislocations
– A dislocated shoulder happens when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket.
– This can occur due to falls or accidents involving a direct blow to the shoulder.
– Immediate medical attention is necessary to reset the shoulder.
Fractures and Breaks
– Falls or heavy equipment accidents can lead to fractures or breaks in the shoulder bones.
– These injuries often require surgery and a lengthy recovery period. You should hire a Missouri Work Comp lawyer if you have a fracture or a break.
Tendonitis and Bursitis
– Overuse of the shoulder can cause inflammation of tendons (tendonitis) or bursa (bursitis).
– Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the shoulder joint.
Causes of Missouri Workers Compensation Shoulder Injury Cases
Heavy Lifting – Manual labor jobs often involve heavy lifting, which can strain the shoulder muscles and lead to injuries.
Repetitive Motion – Repeatedly performing the same shoulder movements, such as lifting or reaching overhead, can contribute to overuse injuries.
Falls and Accidents – Slip and fall accidents or collisions with objects in the workplace can result in shoulder dislocations, fractures, or tears.
Poor Ergonomics – Office workers can also suffer shoulder injuries from poor ergonomics, like using an improperly adjusted chair or computer monitor.
Symptoms of Shoulder Injuries
– Pain or discomfort in the shoulder region.
– Weakness in the arm and difficulty lifting objects.
– Limited range of motion, making it challenging to perform daily tasks.
– Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the shoulder joint.
– In severe cases, a visible deformity or dislocation of the shoulder.
Treatment Options
Rest and Ice – Resting the shoulder and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Physical Therapy – Physical therapy exercises can improve strength and flexibility in the shoulder.
Medications – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Surgery – In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, particularly for fractures, tears, or dislocations. If you had a surgery for your Missouri Workers Compensation shoulder injury, you should hire a Missouri work comp lawyer to maximize your final settlement.
Shoulder injuries in the workplace can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and ability to work. It is crucial for both employers and employees to prioritize safety and take measures to prevent these injuries.
Proper training, ergonomic adjustments, and awareness of potential hazards can go a long way in reducing the risk of shoulder injuries at work.
If a Missouri Workers Compensation shoulder injury does occur, prompt medical attention and rehabilitation are essential for a full recovery. Remember, prevention is key to maintaining a healthy and injury-free shoulder in the workplace.
Don’t try taking on the insurance companies alone. Call The Krebs Law Firm for a free consultation. You need an experienced workers compensation attorney at your side to make sure you get what you deserve for your workplace injury. Call The Krebs Law Firm Springfield office at (417) 883-5886, our Columbia office at (573) 886-8976 or toll free at (800) 345-0535.
There is no upfront cost to hiring a Missouri Workers Compensation attorney for your claim. If have a potential Missouri work comp case and want to make sure you maximize your Missouri Workers Compensation benefits for your workplace injury, then you should speak to an experienced Missouri Workers Compensation attorney sooner rather than later.
Utilize our years of expertise to get the compensation you deserve and let us help each step of the way.