Shoulder injuries are some of the most common — and most disabling — workplace injuries. If you hurt your shoulder on the job, you may struggle with lifting, reaching, pushing, pulling, or even performing basic daily tasks. In many cases, these injuries require surgery and can lead to long-term or permanent restrictions.
If you suffered a serious shoulder injury at work, you should speak with an experienced Knoxville workers’ compensation attorney at The Lawyers of Brown & Roberto right away. Below are some of the most severe shoulder injuries where legal help is especially important.
AC Joint Injuries and Separations
AC Joint Injury with Distal Clavicle Resection or AC Separation (Type III)
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint connects your collarbone and shoulder blade. A distal clavicle resection (removing part of the collarbone) or a Type III separation (complete tearing of ligaments) often leaves workers with instability, pain, and difficulty lifting. These injuries can cause permanent impairment and deserve careful legal handling.
AC Joint Separation (Type IV or Higher)
More severe AC separations (Type IV and above) involve significant displacement of the collarbone. These almost always require surgery and frequently result in long-term restrictions. If you suffered this type of shoulder separation at work, you should consult an attorney to protect your rights.
Shoulder Instability Injuries
Unidirectional Shoulder Instability
This condition occurs when the shoulder joint is loose in one direction, often after trauma or repetitive overhead activity. Symptoms include:
- A feeling of looseness in the joint
- A “dead arm” sensation after use
- Pain during overhead movements
- A feeling that the shoulder is about to “go out”
Even if surgery is performed, workers often face permanent limitations. A workers’ comp lawyer for shoulder instability can make sure your disability rating and benefits are accurate.
Multi-Directional Shoulder Instability
When instability exists in multiple directions, the condition is even more disabling. These workers may face repeated dislocations, chronic pain, and severe work restrictions. Insurance companies often try to downplay these injuries, making attorney representation crucial.
Major Shoulder Surgeries
Shoulder Arthrodesis (Fusion)
In some cases, doctors recommend shoulder fusion surgery (arthrodesis). While this procedure can reduce pain, it eliminates motion in the joint, leaving workers with serious permanent limitations. Returning to heavy labor after a shoulder fusion is nearly impossible.
Shoulder Arthroplasty (Replacement)
A shoulder replacement (arthroplasty) is a major surgery often required when the joint is beyond repair. While it may relieve pain, workers are usually left with permanent restrictions that prevent a return to their prior jobs. These cases often require a skilled workers’ compensation attorney for shoulder replacement claims to secure fair benefits.
When Shoulder Injuries Cause Total Disability
If your workplace shoulder injury prevents you from working in any capacity — not just your old job — you may qualify for permanent total disability benefits under workers’ compensation law. Insurance companies often fight these claims aggressively, so having an attorney is essential.
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Attorney for a Shoulder Injury
Insurance companies often:
- Downplay the seriousness of shoulder injuries
- Push workers back to jobs before they’re ready
- Assign lower disability ratings than deserved
- Deny long-term or permanent benefits
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer for shoulder injuries can:
- Ensure your medical records fully document the injury
- Fight for the correct disability rating
- Pursue permanent partial or permanent total disability benefits
- Negotiate or litigate against unfair denials
Call Today for Help with Your Workers’ Compensation Shoulder Injury Claim
If you suffered a serious shoulder injury at work — whether it required surgery, caused instability, or left you unable to return to your job — you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney immediately.
The right workers’ compensation shoulder injury attorney will fight to make sure you receive the benefits you need for medical treatment, lost wages, and long-term financial security.
Don’t let the insurance company decide your future. Contact our office today for a free consultation about your workers’ compensation shoulder injury claim.