What Jobs Are Commonly Associated With Rotator Cuff Injuries?

In your shoulder, there is a group of tendons and muscles called the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is why your shoulder is stable and can move in any direction. Most rotator cuff injuries occur because of repeating movements over prolonged periods. However, injuries to the rotator cuff can also happen due to traumatic events. There are different types of rotator cuff injuries. First, we have tendinitis. This is when the tendons are irritated and inflamed. Second, there is bursitis. This injury happens when the muscle and bone rub the bursa. The other type of rotator cuff injury is a rotator cuff tear. A tear in the rotator cuff tendon can occur suddenly, for example, during a fall, when lifting a heavy item, or over time. A rotator cuff tear can either be a partial or full tear.

All employees are at risk of developing rotator cuff injuries. However, some employees are at a higher risk of developing rotator cuff injuries than others. By understanding which employees are at a greater risk of developing rotator cuff injuries, employees can take proactive steps to prevent this type of injury. Below are some of the workers who are at a higher risk of developing rotator cuff injuries;

Construction Workers

Construction work entails lifting heavy materials, repetitive use of the arm, and a lot of overhead work, such as installing overhead pipes and placing structural elements. This work can put a strain on the shoulders and lead to the development of rotator cuff injuries.

Assembly Line Workers

Assembly line workers involved in repetitive tasks that require prolonged use of the arms or overhead movements are at an increased risk of developing rotator cuff injuries. Working in constrained or awkward postures can also lead to an assembly line worker developing a rotator cuff injury.

Warehouse or Factory Workers

Warehouse or factory workers who lift and move heavy objects or repetitively reach for things while at work are at an increased risk of developing rotator cuff injuries.

Painters

The repetitive and overhead movements involved in painting increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries. Painters frequently have to reach up to high walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. This constant reaching can strain the rotator cuff. The continuous rolling motions can result in wear and tear on shoulder tendons.

Signs and Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries can cause pain, although this is not always the case. When a rotator cuff injury causes pain, this pain will often be felt at the top of the shoulder or arm. Other symptoms that may indicate a rotator cuff injury include:

• Weakness in the arm
• Limited range of motion
• Tenderness
• Snapping or popping sounds in the arm

Legal Help Is Available

No matter how careful you are, you can still suffer a rotator cuff injury due to your work. When that happens, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Our skilled and dedicated Vermont workers’ compensation attorney at Sluka Law PLC can help you with your claim. We can help you recover the compensation you deserve.