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Shoulder Injury at Work

Sustaining a Shoulder Injury at Work is Hard. Let Us Make Your Recovery Easy.

Shoulders have a greater range of motion than any other joint in the body. When someone suffers trauma to the shoulder or is dealing with shoulder pain, it could significantly limit their day-to-day routine. When an employee experiences shoulder pain or trauma at work, it must be addressed as soon as possible for their health and safety. Employers have workers’ compensation insurance to help cover medical expenses and lost wages when an employee is injured. Unfortunately, obtaining these benefits can be challenging for a victim to accomplish alone as they grapple with their injury, and having a doctor well-versed in the workers’ compensation system in their corner would be in their best interest.

At Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee, we provide comprehensive care to injured workers while ensuring their medical treatment is fully documented for their workers’ compensation claims. We believe that workers’ compensation documentation doesn’t have to be a hassle for a shoulder injury patient. Our patients can rest assured that we help them heal while building their most robust workers’ compensation case for a speedy recovery and safe return to work.

Types of Work-Related Shoulder Injuries

Rotator Cuff Tears.

Rotator cuff tears damage the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. An individual may experience pain and weakness in the shoulder with a hurt rotator cuff.

Shoulder Sprains and Strains.

Overstretching or tearing of ligaments (sprains), muscles, and tendons (strains) in the shoulder lead to sprains and strains, often caused by sudden or excessive force.

Dislocations or Separations.

Dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) comes out of the shoulder socket, while separation involves injury to the ligaments that hold the collarbone (clavicle) to the shoulder blade (scapula).

Shoulder Instability.

Shoulder instability is a condition where the shoulder joint is loose and may easily dislocate or feel like it's slipping out of place.

Bursitis.

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, often caused by repetitive motion or trauma.

Impingement Syndrome.

This occurs when the rotator cuff's tendons and the shoulder's bursa become pinched or compressed, leading to pain and reduced movement.

Fractures.

Breaks in the bones of the shoulder, including the clavicle (collarbone), humerus (upper arm bone), or scapula (shoulder blade), could cause a fracture that can result from falls or direct trauma.

Labral Tears.

Damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that lines and stabilizes the shoulder joint, often caused by repetitive overhead motion or trauma, is called labral tears.

Brachial Plexus Injuries.

These injuries cause damage to the network of nerves that control movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand, commonly resulting from trauma or repetitive strain.

Radiculopathy.

Radiculopathy is the compression or irritation of the spinal nerves in the neck region (cervical spine), leading to pain, weakness, or numbness that may radiate into the shoulder and arm.

Tendonitis.

Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder is called tendonitis. It is often caused by overuse, repetitive motion, or injury.
Woman getting therapy for her shoulder injury

Table Of Contents

Shoulder Stiffness

What is Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint, typically resulting from inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule.

Rotator cuff Injuries

Rotator Cuff Tear Symptoms and Treatment

The symptoms of a rotator cuff injury can vary depending on the severity of the tear and other individual factors. Common symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include:

  • Pain
  • Weakness
  • Limited Range of Motion
  • Catching or Clicking Sensation
  • Night Pain

It's important to note that not everyone with a rotator cuff tear or rotator cuff injury experiences all these symptoms, and some individuals may have a tear without initially realizing it, especially if the tear is small or they have a high pain tolerance. If you suspect you have a rotator cuff tear or injury or are experiencing persistent shoulder pain or weakness, consult with a medical professional specializing in rotator cuff injury care.

Treatment for a rotator cuff tear depends on several factors, including the severity of the tear, the individual's age, activity level, and overall health. Standard treatment options include:

Conservative Treatment. For minor rotator cuff tears or in cases where surgery is not recommended, conservative approaches may be sufficient. These include rest, activity modification, physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve range of motion, and anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling from the injury.

Corticosteroid Injections. Injections of corticosteroids into the shoulder joint can help reduce rotator cuff inflammation and sometimes alleviate pain. These are typically used in conjunction with other conservative treatments.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy. PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of platelets from the patient's own blood into the affected area to promote healing from the rotator cuff injury.

Surgery. If conservative treatments fail to provide relief for the injury or if the rotator cuff tear is severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options include:

  • Arthroscopic Repair: A minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon uses small instruments and a tiny camera to repair the rotator cuff tear.
  • Open Repair: In some cases, open surgery may be required to repair the torn tendon in the rotator cuff, particularly for larger tears or more complex injuries.
  • Tendon Transfer: In cases where the torn tendon is severely damaged or retracted, a tendon from another part of the body may be transferred to replace it.

Rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is a crucial aspect of conservative or surgical treatment of a rotator cuff injury. A structured physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve range of motion, and facilitate recovery from the injury following surgery.

The choice of rotator cuff injury treatment depends on various factors with each patient, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific situation.

Symptoms and Treatment of Shoulder Injuries

Common signs and symptoms of a work-related shoulder injury can vary depending on the specific injury, but they often include:

  • Pain: Persistent or acute pain in the shoulder region may worsen with movement or specific activities.
  • Swelling: Swelling or inflammation around the shoulder joint.
  • Stiffness: Difficulty moving the shoulder joint, particularly with overhead movements or reaching behind the back.
  • Weakness: Reduced strength in the shoulder muscles, leading to difficulty lifting objects or performing tasks that require arm movement.
  • Instability: Feeling that the shoulder is loose or unstable, with a sensation of the joint slipping out of place.
  • Clicking or Popping: Audible or palpable sensations of clicking, popping, or grinding within the shoulder joint during movement.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the shoulder through its full range of motion, with restrictions in abduction, flexion, extension, or rotation.
  • Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in the shoulder, arm, or hand, which may indicate nerve involvement.
  • Visible Deformity: In severe cases, visible deformity or asymmetry in the shoulder area, such as swelling, bruising, or abnormal joint positioning.
  • Difficulty Sleeping: Discomfort or pain in the shoulder that interferes with sleep, mainly when lying on the affected side.
  • Weakness or Fatigue: Feeling weakness or fatigue in the shoulder muscles, especially after prolonged use or activity.

Treatment plans are often individualized based on the patient's specific injury, health, goals, and lifestyle factors and may involve a combination of these approaches to achieve optimal outcomes. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations for shoulder injuries. Treatment for shoulder injuries depends on the specific type and severity of the injury but may include:

  • Rest. Avoid activities that exacerbate pain or worsen the injury, allowing the shoulder time to heal.
  • Ice and Heat Therapy. Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation and pain during the acute phase of injury, followed by heat therapy to promote blood flow and relaxation of muscles during the recovery phase.
  • Medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain and reduce inflammation from the injury. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to alleviate severe pain and inflammation.
  • Physical Therapy. A structured rehabilitation program comprising exercises, stretches, and manual therapy techniques to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder joint following an injury.
  • Activity Modification. Adjusting work tasks or recreational activities to minimize strain on the shoulder and prevent further injury, such as avoiding repetitive overhead movements or heavy lifting.
  • Surgical Intervention. In severe or persistent shoulder injuries, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair torn ligaments, tendons, or cartilage, stabilize dislocations, or remove damaged tissue. Standard surgical techniques include arthroscopy, open surgery, or joint replacement.
  • Modalities. Additional therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or laser therapy may promote tissue healing, reduce pain, and improve function following a shoulder injury.
  • Education and Lifestyle Modifications. Providing education on proper ergonomics, posture, and lifting techniques to prevent future shoulder injuries. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding smoking can also support shoulder health and overall well-being.
  • Bracing and Supportive Devices. Supportive devices such as shoulder braces, orthotics, or ergonomic equipment stabilize the shoulder joint and prevent further injury during activities or work tasks.

REASONS FOR WORK INJURIES

Causes of Work-Related Shoulder and Rotator Cuff Injuries

Common causes of shoulder injuries in the workplace include:

Repetitive Motion

Performing repetitive tasks or motions involving the shoulder joint, such as lifting, reaching, pushing, or pulling, can lead to overuse injuries like tendonitis, bursitis, or rotator cuff tears.

Overexertion

Exceeding the physical limits of the shoulder muscles and tendons due to heavy lifting, carrying, or pushing/pulling objects, especially when proper lifting techniques are not followed.

Poor Ergonomics

Working in environments with inadequate ergonomic design, such as improper workstation setup, poorly designed tools or equipment, or awkward postures, can contribute to shoulder strain and discomfort over time.

Manual Labor

Engaging in physically demanding jobs or manual labor tasks that require frequent use of the arms and shoulders, such as construction, manufacturing, warehouse work, or agriculture, increases the risk of shoulder injuries.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Accidents involving slips, trips, or falls in the workplace can result in shoulder trauma, such as dislocations, fractures, or soft tissue injuries, particularly if the individual instinctively reaches out to break their fall.

Forceful Impact

Direct impact or trauma to the shoulder region from falling objects, collisions, or accidents with machinery or equipment can cause fractures, contusions, or other acute injuries.

Improper lifting techniques

Lifting heavy objects incorrectly, such as using the back instead of the legs, twisting while lifting, or lifting objects that are too heavy for one person, can strain the muscles and ligaments of the shoulder, leading to injury.

Vibration Exposure

Prolonged exposure to vibrations from handheld tools or machinery, such as jackhammers or power tools, can contribute to muscle fatigue and strain in the shoulders and upper body.

Repetitive Arm Movement

Jobs involving repetitive arm movements, such as assembly line work, painting, or typing, can cause overuse injuries and strain the shoulder muscles and tendons over time.

Workstation Design

Poorly designed workstations or equipment that require awkward reaching, stretching, or overhead movements can increase the risk of shoulder injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.

Cold Environments

Working in cold environments without proper insulation or protective clothing can lead to decreased muscle blood flow and increased stiffness and susceptibility to injury in the shoulder region.

HOW WE HELP YOU

Work Injury Doctors and Comprehensive Care at Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee

When you suffer a shoulder injury at work, it could put your life on pause. You may be unable to return to work and support yourself and your household as you try to cope with the injury and pain. Our work injury doctors at Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee know how much the proper shoulder injury treatment and documentation can make a difference for an injured worker, so we comprehensively document your injuries and treatment for your workers’ compensation case. We are medical professionals well-versed in the workers’ compensation claims process, care about your health and well-being, and are ready to help get you on the road to recovery.

We Can Get You Back to Work

If you or a loved one has experienced a shoulder injury on the job, contact Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee right away. Our team is here to provide the support and care you need to navigate the challenges of shoulder injury recovery while documenting your treatment properly for your workers’ compensation claim. We work closely with our injury patients and help ensure a swift recovery, a stress-free workers' compensation claims process, and a safe return to work.

Dr. Kelly of Spine and Joint Institute

If you are not receiving proper care for your injury, you have the right under Wisconsin Workers' Compensation Law to choose your own doctor and to get a second opinion.

- Dr. Kelly

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Milwaukee, WI 53215

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Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee offers medical treatment for those who have suffered injuries at work. We provide the care you need and assistance with your workers' compensation claim.
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