Shoulder and elbow injuries are prevalent among athletes. The prolonged practice of activities such as bicycling, skiing, golfing and running can wear down muscles and joints over time. Athletes are professionals. They are aware of the risks involved and the preventive measures. However, the same cannot be said regarding a regular day-to-day worker, who is supposed to perform heavy lifting in construction industries, auto-mobile drivers driving for long hours, etc. These workers are often unaware of the consequences of regular muscle wear- tear and hence, end up treating their possible musculoskeletal injury as minor discomfort.
Shoulder and Elbow Injury are the second most common work injury in the US
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average of 5900 workers suffered from shoulder injuries each month in 2014. This means around 16 workers suffer from a shoulder injury at work every day. And the U.S Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) around 6,400 workers suffer from work-related elbow injuries every month (in 2014). Compared to other workplace injuries, shoulder injuries cause the average employee to miss around 26 days of work.
Shoulder and elbow injuries are the second most common musculoskeletal injury in the workplace and account for approximately $1.7 billion in cost due to Workers’ compensation claims each year. Elbow injuries, on the other hand, are not as frequent, but they also relatively result in more days away from work and wage loss.
Common factors that lead to Shoulder and Elbow Injuries at Work.
According to the research-based musculoskeletal injuries: repetitive motions can trigger shoulder and elbow injuries. The most common reason for these injuries is the motions of reaching for things overhead or twisting the torso to lift or stack material in warehouses. In desk jobs, there are chances of developing repetitive strain injury or carpal tunnel syndrome due to the static nature of the job. The shoulder and elbow injuries sustained are not as drastic and are mostly non-fatal. However, they can develop into something more if not treated timely.
The best way to prevent these types of injuries is to set up your workplace for ergonomic success. Proper posture, exercise and stretching can also help prevent repetitive use injuries.
Types of Shoulder and elbow injuries:
Injuries to the shoulder and elbow are common in many professions, from construction to factory workers. However, they are a significant concern for office workers who use computers.
The most common types of injuries include :
- Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
- Tendonitis and bursitis
These injuries can cause lasting physical and emotional problems that can interfere with your life. Even if you do not have a grave injury, these kinds of issues can cause aches and pains that make it difficult to sleep or lead a pain-free life.
If you or your loved one is suffering from the painful symptoms of shoulder and elbow injury due to your work, you are entitled to file a Workers’ compensation claim.
Shoulder and elbow injuries can be overwhelming and complicated. It is advisable to consult professionals on this matter. Contact experienced Work Injury Lawyers from Pistiolas Law to represent you and your claim.
Call (844) 414-1768 to book a free evaluation.
