Have You Experienced an Orthopedic Work-Related Injury?

Have You Experienced an Orthopedic Work-Related Injury?

If your work responsibilities have you on your feet and moving throughout the day, then you are at a higher risk of suffering from an orthopedic injury. In New York, about 200,000 people are injured or become ill while completing their professional responsibilities each year.

One of the most common types of acute injuries that are experienced from work-related causes are orthopedic injuries. Some of these injuries may be severe enough to require the talents of an authorized orthopedic surgeon.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, then consider reporting the injury to your supervisor and scheduling your appointment with our experienced team today.

#1. Knee Pain

Every worker is at-risk for experiencing this type of orthopedic injury while at work. Knee injuries can come from tripping over a computer cord to falling off a scaffold that was not built properly.

Knee pain may come from a wide variety of issues. Ligaments or tendons may be bruised, over-extended, or torn. There may be damage to the cartilage in the knee. Pain can even be caused by muscle sprains and strains that occur around the joint area.

Knee pain is something you should never ignore. If something happened at work and your knee is now hurting, follow the workers’ compensation rules and schedule time with a specialist right away.

#2. Ankle Pain

Ankle pain is also a common orthopedic injury that occurs in virtually every workplace in New York. Injuries to the ankle are common from slips, trips, and falls. Many workers write-off ankle injuries as something that occurs because they feel like they were careless. The problem that occurs with an ankle injury is that it can lead to additional joint issues if not treated, including arthritis. Untreated ankle injuries may also make repetitive injuries more likely to the same joint in the future.

If you’ve suffered a workplace accident and are suffering from ankle pain because of it, then don’t ignore the pain. See a workers’ compensation doctor about the issue.

#3. Shoulder Pain

This type of injury tends to occur more often with workers who have lifting and carrying responsibilities as part of their job description. When your muscles become over-exerted or there is repetitive strain placed on your shoulder joint, it is possible for a work-related injury to occur.

One of the primary symptoms of a shoulder injury, outside of pain, is limited joint movement. Trauma to the joint results in swelling, which may not always be visible from the outside, making the arm difficult to move.

#4. Neck and Back Pain

Do you sit at the computer all day, every day? Does your back or neck hurt after working all day? Then there is a good chance that you’re increasing the risk of a neck or back injury in the future.

Many back and neck injuries can be prevented with some simple precautions.

1. Sit in your chair with proper posture.
2. Tilt your computer monitor to avoid neck strain.
3. Get up every hour to walk around for about 5 minutes.

This type of injury can cause discomfort for months, and sometimes years, if it occurs. If your back or neck hurts from an incident that happened at work, then you may be eligible to initiate the workers’ compensation process and have a specialist address your concerns.

#5. Hip Pain

If you have fallen at work or suffered a side-impact injury, then hip pain is a common outcome that is experienced. Hip pain is just as serious as shoulder pain as it can limit your mobility. Even if you sit at a desk, inflammation can develop hip pain that is just as bothersome as if you had slipped and fallen.

An orthopedic specialist can diagnose your injury, work to reduce inflammation if it is present, and then help you regain your mobility, so you can get back to what it is that you do best.

What to Do If You Think You Have a Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you’ve been injured at work, then it is important that you follow your employer’s policies and the requirements issued by the State of New York.

Obtain first aid or necessary medical treatments as soon as possible. Our clinic is authorized by the Workers’ Compensation Board, which means you can seek treatment here. In an emergency, you can visit any provider.

FAQ

What qualifies as an orthopedic work‑related injury?
Any injury to bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, or nerves sustained on the job—such as fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, or cumulative trauma disorders—falls under orthopedic work‑related injuries.

How do I know if my back pain is work‑related?
If the pain began or worsened during job duties—lifting heavy objects, repetitive bending, or long hours standing—and persists beyond a few days, it likely qualifies as a work‑related orthopedic issue.

When should I report an orthopedic injury at work?
Report immediately—ideally on the same day—to your supervisor or safety officer. Early reporting ensures prompt evaluation, treatment, and protection of your workers’ compensation rights.

What steps will my employer take after I report the injury?
They should document the incident, refer you to an approved medical provider, and file a workers’ compensation claim. You’ll receive information on your benefits and return‑to‑work options.

Can I choose my own orthopedic surgeon for a work injury?
It depends on your state’s rules: some allow you to select from a panel of employer‑approved doctors, while others let you seek a second opinion after an initial evaluation.

What treatments are common for work‑related sprains and strains?
RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, physical therapy for strength and flexibility, and sometimes bracing or taping to support the injured area.

How long does recovery take for a work‑related fracture?
Recovery varies by bone and fracture type but generally ranges from 6 to 12 weeks for healing, followed by rehabilitation to restore full function.

Will I get paid if I can’t work because of an orthopedic injury?
Yes—most workers’ comp programs provide temporary disability benefits, typically a percentage of your pre‑injury wage, while you’re medically unable to work.

What is modified or light duty?
Modified duty assigns you tasks within your medical restrictions—such as desk work instead of heavy lifting—allowing you to remain employed while recovering.

How can physical therapy help my work injury?
Targeted exercises, manual techniques, and functional training restore strength, mobility, and safe movement patterns to prevent re‑injury when you return to work.

What role does an orthopedic surgeon play in work‑related injuries?
An orthopedic surgeon evaluates complex injuries, orders advanced imaging (X‑rays, MRI), performs surgeries if needed, and guides post‑operative rehabilitation.

Can repetitive motion injuries like carpal tunnel be covered by workers’ comp?
Yes. Conditions arising from repeated work activities—typing, assembly line work, tool use—are recognized as cumulative trauma injuries eligible for compensation.

What if my injury worsens after returning to work?
Report new or increased symptoms immediately. Your doctor can reevaluate restrictions, adjust treatment, and update your workers’ comp claim to reflect ongoing needs.

Are cortisone injections used for work‑related joint injuries?
Yes. Ultrasound‑guided corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation in shoulders, elbows, knees, or hips, speeding recovery for certain tendon or bursitis conditions.

How can I prevent orthopedic injuries on the job?
Use proper lifting techniques, take micro‑breaks, perform stretching and strengthening exercises, wear appropriate protective equipment, and follow ergonomic guidelines.

Do I need imaging for my orthopedic work injury?
If pain or dysfunction persists beyond initial conservative care, your provider may order X‑rays to rule out fractures or MRI/ultrasound to assess soft‑tissue damage.

What happens if my workers’ comp claim is denied?
You can appeal the decision, supply additional medical evidence, request an independent medical exam, and engage legal representation if necessary.

Can surgical repair be required for a work‑related tendon tear?
Yes. Complete rotator cuff tears, Achilles ruptures, or other full‑thickness tendon injuries often require operative repair followed by structured rehab.

How soon can I return to work after orthopedic surgery?
Return‑to‑work timelines vary: minor arthroscopic procedures may allow modified duty within days, while major repairs (fusion, reconstruction) can require weeks to months off.

How do I choose the right provider for my work‑related orthopedic injury?
Look for board‑certified orthopedic surgeons or sports medicine specialists experienced in occupational injuries, affiliated with reputable clinics or hospitals, and approved by your state’s workers’ comp network.