Construction Worker Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries can take a long time to heal, and they often cause construction workers to miss a lot of work.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, shoulder injuries caused employees to miss a median of 26 days of work during 2014—more than any other body part.
While every shoulder injury is unique, the symptoms construction workers typically experience are extremely disruptive to both their work and personal lives.
Typical Construction Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries suffered by construction workers can vary in severity from minor strains to complete impairment. Some injuries occur instantly, while others develop slowly over long periods of time. Overexertion, repetitive motions, falls, and equipment accidents are all typical causes of construction shoulder injuries, including:
- Shoulder strains and sprains. Overexertion or tearing of muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments may cause shoulder strains and sprains.
- Shoulder dislocations. Sudden and sharp arm movements can cause the bone to come out of the socket.
- Rotator cuff damage. The rotator cuff is typically injured by repetitive overhead arm movements, though damage may also be caused by a single accident.
- Tendonitis. When the tendons attaching the bones and muscles are strained, the tissue around the tendons can become inflamed and painful.
- Fractured or broken shoulders. The collarbone or shoulder blade can break due to falls and heavy equipment injuries.
Shoulder Injury Consequences
While all of these injuries are different, they may have the same impact on the life of the injury victim. Shoulder damage can prevent a construction worker from returning to his job, and require him to receive steroid injections, physical therapy, and surgery. The shoulder can take months to heal, depriving the injured worker of the income his family needs.
If you’re suffering from construction work shoulder injuries, you’re entitled to receive workers’ compensation payments for your lost income, as well as coverage for your medical bills. Your attorney can also help you pursue compensation from any third parties responsible for your injuries. To learn more about what the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., can do for you, visit us on Facebook.