Many injuries that are acquired in the workplace are developed over a span of time rather than sustained in a one-time incident. Shoulder injuries are some of the most common injuries workers experience and tend to vary in severity, depending on the type of work that was performed and for how long the worker performed the tasks that led to the injury. Although many insurance companies attempt to deny these benefits and try to dispute shoulder injury claims by alleging that they are not work-related, these injuries are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. To ensure that you are able to obtain these crucial benefits, hire a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible.
Below are some common types of shoulder injuries workers frequently suffer:
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Peripheral nerve impairment
- Overuse injuries
- Frozen shoulder
- Impingement
- Bursitis
- Shoulder dislocation
- Tendonitis
- Range of motion impairment
Any of these injuries can require an employee to take time off from work, medication, steroid injections, physical therapy, or even surgery in some cases. If you begin noticing severe pain in your shoulder, it is imperative that you do not continue to use it since this can cause the injury to worsen. In fact, if the condition is severe enough, you might not be able to return to your job or, if you do, it will not be in the same position you previously held.
The Symptoms and Causes of Shoulder Injuries
Not all workplace shoulder injuries are the same, but they often exhibit many of the same symptoms, such as a decreased range of motion, numbness, tingling, and stiffness. Additionally, some common causes of shoulder injuries include blunt trauma to the joint, heavy lifting, falling onto the affected shoulder, and repetitive overhead work.
Oftentimes, shoulder injuries are caused by repetitive motions, even those that might not seem strenuous. To help workers avoid these types of injuries, employers should provide ergonomic equipment or more frequent breaks to mitigate the risks of this serious injury. Shoulder injuries that are less serious might be alleviated by simply modifying work habits, taking additional precautions, or using different equipment.
Keep in mind that even if your occupation does not appear to be physically demanding, any form of repetitive physical work can ultimately result in the development of this injury.
Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Sacramento
If you sustained a workplace injury, you are likely eligible for important workers’ compensation benefits that can help you get through this difficult time. Unfortunately, sometimes insurance companies try to push back to prevent you from obtaining these benefits. At Smolich and Smolich, our Sacramento workers’ compensation attorneys are here to fight on your behalf to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
For exceptional legal representation, contact us today at (916) 571-0400 to request your free initial case evaluation. If we cannot win your case, you will not owe us any legal fees.