Torn Rotator Cuff Injuries in Elevator Mechanics
Elevator mechanics do physically demanding work. Lifting heavy parts, working overhead, and climbing ladders can put significant strain on the shoulders. One of the most common serious shoulder injuries elevator mechanics experience is a torn rotator cuff.
If you injure your shoulder on the job, the first step is to report the injury right away and seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
What Is a Torn Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that help keep the joint stable and allow the arm to lift and rotate.
Because elevator mechanics often work with their arms raised and lift heavy equipment, the shoulder is under constant strain. A rotator cuff tear can happen suddenly while lifting something heavy, or it can develop over time from repeated stress on the shoulder.
Common symptoms include:
- Shoulder pain
- Weakness in the arm
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty lifting or reaching overhead
Torn Rotator Cuff Surgery and Light Duty
Some rotator cuff injuries improve with rest, therapy, and medical treatment. However, more serious tears often require surgery to repair the damaged tendon.
Recovery can take several months and usually includes physical therapy to rebuild strength in the shoulder.
During recovery, a doctor may restrict the type of work you can perform and put you on light duty. Light duty usually means the worker cannot lift heavy parts, reach overhead, climb ladders, or perform other physically demanding tasks.
For elevator mechanics, light duty can be difficult because most of the job requires physical labor. If an employer cannot provide work within those restrictions, workers’ comp benefits may continue while the worker recovers.
Is My Torn Rotator Cuff Injury Covered by Workers’ Comp?
Attorney Frank Kearney explains how torn rotator cuff injuries can happen at work and when they may be covered by workers’ compensation benefits.
Other Injuries Elevator Mechanics Experience
Elevator mechanics can suffer several types of injuries on the job, including:
- Back injuries from lifting heavy parts or equipment
- Knee injuries from climbing ladders or working in tight spaces
- Head injuries from falls or being struck by equipment
If you have experienced any of these injuries, don’t wait or try to shake off the pain. You could make the injury worse. Get medical help right away, then give us a call.
How Donahoe Kearney Helps Injured Workers
After a serious work injury, dealing with medical treatment and insurance issues can quickly become overwhelming.
At Donahoe Kearney, we help injured workers understand their rights and navigate the workers’ compensation process while they focus on recovery. Attorney Frank Kearney has more than 30 years of experience helping injured workers through these situations.
If you suffered a shoulder injury at work, it is important to understand your rights and get the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.
Call 202-393-3320 or book your free consultation here: Book Free Consultation.