Stone Mason Settles D.C. Workers’ Comp Case After Shoulder Injury

October 22, 2025 | Grace

A Stone Mason’s Rotator Cuff Injury at Work

Working as a stone mason, bricklayer, or almost any job in construction means you’re constantly lifting overhead and carrying heavy equipment, tools, and material.

A 54-year-old master stone mason was working on a bridge in Washington, D.C., adding decorative stone to the brick and block pillars when he felt a pop in his right shoulder while placing a stone just over his head. After 30 years in the trade without ever getting hurt, he thought he could shake it off and get back to work.

By the end of the day, he couldn’t lift his arm.

After seeing a shoulder specialist and getting an MRI, he was diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear and needed surgery followed by months of rehab. Unfortunately, with this type of injury, he never regained full strength. His doctors restricted him from returning to construction because the heavy lifting and overhead work were too much for his shoulder.

By this point, he had a permanent work-related injury.

Like many hardworking people, he had been working since he was a teenager. Even though he received weekly workers’ compensation benefits, losing the ability to do the work he loved took a toll. For the first time, he didn’t have the satisfaction of being productive.

We made sure he stayed on workers’ comp benefits during his recovery and gave him the time he needed to find a new job where he could use his skills without the physical strain.

We’re happy to share that he received a significant settlement that helped him transition into lighter work and set up a tax-free retirement fund — giving him financial security and the chance to keep supporting his family.