Shoulder & Knee Injuries

Workplace injuries are all too common, especially those involving the shoulder and knee. A shoulder or knee injury can significantly impact your ability to do your job and live your life the way you want to live it. If you’ve been injured at work, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you need to take to secure the compensation you deserve. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we’ve assembled a dedicated team of Miami workers’ compensation lawyers who are immediately available to help you pursue the compensation and medical benefits you need to overcome your injuries and get your life back on track.

Shoulder injuries in the workplace can occur in various ways, including repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or a sudden accident. Some common shoulder injuries which can result in pain include:

Rotator Cuff Tears – The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep your shoulder joint stable. Tears can occur from repetitive use or a single traumatic event, such as regularly lifting lightweight objects over your head or overexerting yourself by lifting a heavy object.

Dislocations – When the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, it causes a dislocation. Dislocations often stem from falls or impacts with objects in the workplace.

Bursitis – The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in your shoulder joint. Inflammation of the bursa, known as bursitis, can result from repetitive overhead movements or pressure.

Tendonitis – Inflammation of the shoulder tendons, often caused by repetitive motion or overuse, leading to pain and reduced mobility.

Knee injuries are also prevalent in the workplace, particularly in jobs that require standing, lifting, or moving heavy objects. Common knee injuries include:

Meniscus Tears – The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions your knee joint. Tears can occur from twisting motions or heavy lifting.

Ligament Injuries – Injuries to the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) or MCL (medial collateral ligament) are common in accidents involving sudden stops or changes in direction.

Patellar Tendonitis – Also known as jumper’s knee, this condition results from overuse of the knee joint, causing inflammation in the patellar tendon.

Bursitis – Just like in the shoulder, the knee also has bursae that can become inflamed from repetitive movements or prolonged kneeling.

Navigating the workers' compensation process in Florida can be challenging, but knowing some basic steps can help you recover the compensation and medical benefits you are entitled to under the law.

1. Report Your Injury: Notify your employer about your injury as soon as possible. In Florida, you must report the injury within 30 days of the incident or within 30 days of realizing the injury is work-related.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Your employer or their insurance company should direct you to an authorized medical provider for treatment. Make sure to follow all medical advice and attend all appointments. If your employer doesn’t provide you with a doctor, you are entitled to select a doctor of your choosing.
3. File a Claim: Your employer should file a form called a “First Report of Injury or Illness” with their workers' compensation insurance carrier. Follow up to ensure this is done promptly and correctly.
4. Medical Evaluation: An authorized doctor will evaluate your injury, arrive at a diagnosis and determine your work status and any necessary restrictions.
5. Benefit Payments: If your claim is approved, you may receive benefits such as medical treatment coverage, temporary disability payments, and, if necessary, permanent disability benefits.

Of course, every claim is different, and sometimes, employers and their insurance companies are not as cooperative as they should be. Our experienced Miami workers’ compensation lawyers can be incredibly helpful in properly preparing and submitting your claim to avoid unnecessary delays and denials.

Dealing with a workplace injury can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to recover and navigate the legal process at the same time. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we understand the challenges you're facing and are here to help. Our very experienced Miami workers' compensation attorneys will guide you through each step of the process, doing everything possible to ensure you receive all the benefits you deserve. If you’ve suffered a shoulder or knee injury at work, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we're committed to helping you get back on your feet. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call us at 305-448-8585. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.