When thinking of the challenges that Minnesota truck drivers face, not many people think of shoulder problems. However, loading and unloading cargo, entering and exiting a truck and other repetitive motions can cause shoulder problems such as inflammation of the joints, bursitis, dislocation and general pain.
When shoulder injuries occur on the job, injured truckers may be eligible for workers’ compensation. The compensation provides financial support for truckers who are unable to work because of their injury. Several types of shoulder injuries can make it difficult to work as a trucker.
Torn rotator cuff
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles positioned around the upper arm bone. The rotator cuff secures the arm to the shoulder blade and makes it possible to rotate and lift the arm. Truck drivers need this ability to do things such as load and unload cargo. If a rotator cuff tendon gets torn, it will cause pain, decreased range of motion and weakness in the arm.
Torn labrum
The labrum helps your shoulder joint remain in place. A torn labrum is a painful shoulder injury that is often caused by overuse or strain. It can also occur if the shoulder already has another injury. Since the labrum helps stabilize the shoulder joint, a torn labrum might feel like the shoulder is moving out of place.
Dislocated shoulder
The shoulder becomes dislocated when the upper arm bone, or humerous, disconnects from the shoulder joint. The upper arm bone moves from its correct position and can end up beneath, in front of or behind the shoulder socket.
These are only a few examples of shoulder injuries that truck drivers can experience. Truckers are prone to shoulder injuries because the job requires tasks that often strain shoulder muscles. A professional medical diagnosis is needed to claim workers’ compensation.