Bilateral shoulder injuries are those that affect both shoulders. The shoulder is a large, complex joint comprised of bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and bursae or sacs of lubricating fluid. Injury to any of these parts can cause pain in one specific area, throughout the shoulder, or down the arm. Examples of bilateral shoulder injuries include:
- Bursitis or inflammation of the bursae sacs
- Fractures
- Frozen shoulder
- Rotator cuff tears
- Sprains
- Strains
- Tendonitis
The shoulder has a wide range of motion and must also bear the weight of all the daily tasks done with the arms. This means it is particularly susceptible to injury, as evidenced by the frequency of reported workplace shoulder problems.
What Are Common Causes of Workplace Shoulder Injuries?
The most common causes of workplace shoulder injuries are overexertion and repetitive motion. Correct posture and lifting techniques are essential for employees to avoid injury at work. Jobs that require heavy lifting, reaching overhead, and repetitive tasks put workers at risk for shoulder injuries. Workers who sit at computers for long hours can also develop shoulder problems.
What Are Common Symptoms of Bilateral Shoulder Injuries?
Workers experiencing pain in both shoulders may have one or more of these symptoms:
- Deep pain combined with a burning sensation.
- Redness over the shoulder joints accompanied by heat.
- A tight feeling in the arms and shoulders coupled with the inability to move the hands freely while walking or exercising.
- Pain and tingling radiating throughout the hands and arms.
How Are Workplace Shoulder Injuries Treated?
Treatment for workplace shoulder injuries may include some or all of the following:
- Physical therapy
- Resting the joint and applying heat or ice
- Pain medications to control swelling
- Cortisone injections
- Surgery
Can I Get Workers’ Compensation for a Shoulder Injury?
If your shoulder injury results from your work, you should be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits may cover your medical expenses, prescription medications, physical therapy, and lost wages if you cannot work during your recovery.
For help determining the amount of benefits you are entitled to, contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. Many employers or insurance companies try to deny claims for benefits or incorrectly calculate the amount they owe an injured worker.
Monmouth County Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams Fight for the Rights of Workers With Bilateral Shoulder Injuries
You may be eligible for compensation if you have a workplace shoulder injury. Contact our Monmouth County workers’ compensation lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams to learn more. Call 732-351-2800 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Our offices are located in Tinton Falls and New Brunswick, New Jersey and we serve not only clients in Monmouth and Middlesex County, but throughout the state.
