A Massachusetts Attorney Explains Job-Related Rotator Cuff Injuries
Your rotator cuff is comprised of several muscles and tendons that keep your arm secured in the shoulder socket.
Like most injuries caused by repetitive stress, rotator cuff tears are common in occupations that require repeated arm motion. This can include construction workers, painters, carpenters, machine operators, welders and warehouse workers.
Identifying a rotator cuff injury
In most cases, rotator cuff injuries happen over a long period of time, and often from normal wear and tear.
WebMD identifies two types of rotator cuff tears:
- Partial tear: The tendon on top of your shoulder becomes frayed or damaged.
- Complete tear: The tendon on top of your shoulder is torn all the way through or is pulled off the bone.
Workers who sustain rotator cuff injuries may experience:
- Difficulty raising the arm affected by the tear
- Poor range of motion
- Pain or discomfort when moving the affected arm in certain ways
- Discomfort when sleeping
- Shoulder weakness
- Difficulty with lifting
- A clicking or popping sensation when moving affected arm
Seeking treatment for a rotator cuff injury
When treating a rotator cuff injury, your doctor may examine the affected shoulder and conduct an MRI, X-ray or ultrasound.
The recovery process may require:
- Physical therapy and exercises to strengthen your shoulder
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Surgery (in severe cases)
On average, a rotator cuff takes six months to heal. However, it could take longer, depending on the severity of the tear.
Recovering from a torn rotator cuff not only takes time but also can be costly. Not only will your medical bills accumulate, but you will be required to take a significant amount of time off from work. If your rotator cuff injury was job-related, it’s crucial that you understand your rights.
Don’t let your boss downplay your injury. Even if there isn’t a lot of pain, a torn rotator cuff is serious. You need time off from work to recover. You are also eligible for workers’ compensation benefits that will cover your wages and medical expenses while you’re unable to work.
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl can help guide you through the process. We can also negotiate with the insurance companies responsible for issuing workers’ compensation benefits.
We’re experienced at handling repetitive stress injuries just like yours and proudly serve Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation.