JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

If you have a job that requires heavy lifting, pulling, reaching, or repetitive shoulder motion, you are at risk of developing a rotator cuff injury.

We rarely think of our shoulders unless they hurt, but every time we push, pull, lift, or carry with our arms, we use our shoulders. We do this because our arms are attached to our shoulder blades by a group of muscles and tendons known as the rotator cuff.

When you use your arms to do work, you develop your muscles. If you do the same type of work over and over, you can develop a muscle imbalance. Tightness in the front of the shoulder and weakness in the back of the shoulder will affect your posture and balance and lead to rotator cuff injuries.

Daily shoulder stretches and shoulder-strengthening exercises can prevent a muscle imbalance that causes rotator cuff injuries. A doctor or physical therapist can recommend an exercise program.

To help prevent a rotator cuff injury:

• Exercise regularly; include shoulder exercises in your fitness routine.
• Stretch before doing physical work.
• Use proper lifting techniques. Use your knees instead of bending, and hold large objects close to the body.
• Avoid repetitive arm and shoulder motions. If repetitive arm and shoulder movements are part of your job, take frequent breaks to rest your shoulder.
• If you feel pain or swelling, rest the arm and alternate heat and ice.
• If home remedies do not help, contact your personal physician as soon as possible.

If your job causes you to develop a rotator cuff injury, you may be eligible for Pennsylvania workers’ compensation. To learn more about your benefits, use the link in the sidebar to request a free copy of Your Guide to PA Workers’ Compensation. To schedule a free consultation with an Allentown work injury lawyer, contact Mednick, Mezyk, and Kredo at 888-807-WORK.