Musculoskeletal Disorders Are Common Among Workers
Many shoulder injures fall into the category of musculoskeletal disorders, which are issues that affect muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. These joint, bone, and muscle disorders accounted for nearly one-third of all work-related injury cases across the country in 2015. Common causes of these injuries include:- Heavy lifting
- Overexertion
- Awkward body position or posture
- Repetitive movement
- Trauma
Shoulder Injury Symptoms
Often, employees who suffer a shoulder injury at work ignore some pain and discomfort or attribute it to fatigue. However, shoulder injuries are serious and can have a significant impact on both the professional and personal life. Some frequent shoulder symptoms that should be examined include:- Stiffness
- Pain
- Weakness
- Loosening: a feeling as if the shoulder could come out of its socket
- Limited range of movement
Common Work-Related Shoulder Injuries and Treatment Options
In some cases, simply modifying the work routine or using assistive technology can reduce the pressure on the joint and improve function. Many times, however, damage is done that must be addressed by a physician. Some of the most common shoulder injuries include:- Rotator cuff injuries
- Dislocation
- Separation
- Arthritis
- Tendonitis
- Impingement
Iowa Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available to Injured Workers
Many shoulder injuries would make an employee eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Under Iowa law, the system provides medical care and wage replacement for injuries sustained in the course of a job. The benefits can cover…- Medical care. These benefits include doctor visits, medications, rehabilitation, surgery, medical equipment, and transportation to and from appointments.
- Wage replacement. Wage replacement provides weekly compensation while the employee misses work due to the injury. The amount of compensation depends on a variety of factors, including the time lost from work and the severity of the injury.
Wage Replacement Can Provide Weekly Income for Injured Workers
Iowa is one of the most generous states when it comes to wage replacement for injured workers. Payments are based on the worker’s wages before the injury, and Iowa workers can obtain up to 80 percent of their weekly spendable earnings through the benefits system. The state defines spendable earnings as “the amount remaining after payroll taxes are deducted from gross weekly earnings.” These payments are scheduled based on the severity of the injury. Some injuries leave the affected employees unable to work at all, while others may allow them to perform some job duties. Additionally, benefits are available for both permanent and temporary injuries. The workers’ compensation system will offer wage replacement during the recovery period for temporary injuries, and it can pay benefits continually for permanent injuries. Every injury and every worker is unique, so compensation is paid based on each individual situation. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help an employee examine his case and determine what types of compensation may available. Additionally, a lawyer can offer guidance and help gather evidence to support a claim to achieve the maximum amount of compensation. If you or someone you love has suffered a shoulder injury, you may be eligible for benefits in Iowa, and the dedicated workers' compensation attorneys at the Pothitakis Law Firm may be able to help. Download a free copy of our book, 7 Things You Must Know if You Get Hurt at Work, to learn more about your rights.Links Related to “How Much Will You Get After a Shoulder Surgery from Workers' Compensation?”
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