Workplace injuries happen all the time, even if we try our best to avoid them. While some are minor, others can be serious enough to require medical care and time off work. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common workers comp injuries that lead people to file compensation claims and why you should reach out to a Nashville workers comp attorney for help.
Back Injuries
Back injuries are among the most common and costly workplace injuries, affecting people in all types of jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, musculoskeletal disorders – which include sprains, strains, and tears to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, and spinal discs – accounted for 34% of all workplace injuries in 2018.
Back strains and sprains can happen when lifting heavy objects incorrectly, sudden movement, repetitive motions, and vibrations from tools. Office workers are at risk due to prolonged sitting and improper desk setups.
Knee Injuries
Knee injuries are another common source of workers comp claims, especially in jobs that require a lot of kneeling, lifting, climbing, squatting, or walking up and down stairs.
Most knee injuries involve the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or bones in the knee. Torn ligaments, sprained tendons, and torn cartilage can result from an awkward twist, fall, or impact to the knee. Over time, repeated stress on the knee from physical labor can lead to arthritis and other degenerative conditions.
Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries are common in many physical jobs. Repeating the same shoulder movements, especially overhead reaching or heavy lifting, can lead to painful conditions like rotator cuff tears or tendinitis. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize your shoulder joint.
Over time, these tissues can become inflamed (tendinitis) or even partially torn from overuse or injury. You may experience a dull ache in the shoulder, pain when lifting your arm overhead, or weakness gripping objects.
Hand and Wrist Injuries
Hand and wrist injuries are some of the most common workers compensation claims. The human hand is an intricate system of nerves, tendons, and small bones that can easily be damaged. Repetitive tasks like assembly line work or typing can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and wrists.
You may also suffer fractures, sprains, or strains from slips and falls, heavy lifting, or operating machinery. Lacerations and puncture wounds are common in environments where sharp tools or equipment are used.
Ankle and Foot Injuries
Ankle sprains and strains are some of the most common injuries in the workplace. Your ankles support your entire body weight and are prone to twisting or overextension. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support your ankle joint are torn or overstretched.
These injuries typically happen when walking on uneven ground, climbing ladders or stairs, or carrying heavy objects. The pain from an ankle sprain can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the sprain. You may experience swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking.
Head and Brain Injuries
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries are some of the most serious workplace injuries. While hard hats protect against impact injuries to the skull, they do not prevent the brain from moving around within the skull upon impact, which can cause injury.
Any blow to the head – even one that does not appear serious – has the potential to cause a concussion or traumatic brain injury. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in mood or sleep patterns.
Reach Out to a Nashville Lawyer for Guidance on Workers Comp Injuries
Navigating the workers compensation system can be complicated. As an injured worker, you deserve fair compensation and medical coverage so you can get back to work. Don’t go through this difficult process alone.
An experienced Tennessee workers compensation attorney can advise you of your legal rights following workers comp injuries and help build a strong case to claim the full benefits you’re entitled to under the law. Call our firm today at (615) 502-4477.