A shoulder injury can take away the simplest parts of your day: reaching a shelf, lifting your child, sleeping on your side. For many workers, it also takes away the job. Philly Injury Lawyer helps injured workers get the treatment, surgery and benefits a shoulder injury demands.
How Shoulder Injuries Happen at Work
- Lifting and carrying heavy loads
- Reaching overhead again and again
- Pushing and pulling carts, patients or freight
- Falls onto an outstretched arm
- Sudden jerks, such as catching a falling object
Common diagnoses include rotator cuff tears, labral tears, impingement, dislocations and frozen shoulder.
What Workers’ Comp Covers
- Doctor visits, imaging such as MRIs, and physical therapy
- Injections and surgery when needed
- Wage-loss benefits while you can’t work or have restrictions
- Specific loss benefits if you permanently lose the use of your arm for all practical purposes
How Insurers Fight Shoulder Claims
Insurers often say a rotator cuff tear is “degenerative” or just age-related. But if your job caused or worsened the tear, it’s covered. See Workers’ Comp With a Pre-Existing Condition. They may also delay approval for an MRI or surgery. We push back so your treatment isn’t held up.
Shoulder Injuries and Settlements
If you need surgery or may not return to your old job, the value of your claim goes up. Don’t settle a shoulder case before you know your long-term outlook. See Workers’ Comp Settlements.
Hurt Your Shoulder at Work? Call Us
Call (215) 735-4800 for a free consultation. We Win or It’s Free®.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rotator cuff surgery covered by workers’ comp?
Yes, when it’s reasonable and needed to treat the work injury. If the insurer refuses, we can challenge it.
What if my shoulder got worse over time instead of from one accident?
Injuries that build up from repeated work are covered too. Report it when you realize your job is causing it.
Can I get a second opinion on surgery?
Yes. You can get a second opinion if surgery is recommended.
Pennsylvania Law in Plain English
Under Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation Act, a work shoulder injury is covered for medical care and lost wages, and permanent loss of use of the arm can bring specific loss benefits. MedlinePlus has plain-language information about shoulder injuries and treatment.
