Every day, countless workers across various industries push their bodies to the limit, often without realizing the long-term impact on their health. If your job involves repetitive shoulder movements, you may be at risk for a repetitive motion injury, which can severely impact your quality of life and ability to work.
Understanding these risks is crucial for protecting your health and your livelihood. In this blog, we’ll explore what repetitive motion injuries are and why seeking help early is vital.
Understanding repetitive motion injuries
Repetitive motion injuries occur when you make the same movements repeatedly, causing stress on particular muscles and tendons. In the shoulder, this condition often affects the rotator cuff, which includes muscles and tendons that support the shoulder joint. When you overuse these tissues, they can become inflamed or even tear, leading to significant pain and discomfort.
The first sign of a repetitive motion injury in the shoulder is usually a dull ache that worsens with movement or when resting on the affected side. Without proper treatment, the patient may experience more severe issues, such as a complete tear of the rotator cuff tendons. Over time, this could lead to shoulder arthritis, limiting your ability to lift your arm and causing chronic pain.
Ignoring shoulder pain can lead to long-term damage that might require surgery or result in permanent loss of function. If you suspect a repetitive motion injury, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent further damage and improve your chances of a full recovery.
Seeking legal help
If your shoulder injury is work-related, you may seek compensation. Initiating the claims process can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced attorney can guide you through the steps needed to secure the benefits you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery.