Work-Related Arm Injuries

What Are Work-Related Arm Injuries?

Work-related arm injuries are any injuries to the arm, wrist, elbow, or shoulder that occur while on the job. These injuries can result from sudden trauma or develop gradually over time due to repetitive movements. Jobs that require heavy lifting, constant use of tools, or repetitive tasks like typing or assembly line work put workers at higher risk for arm injuries.

Such injuries can affect muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones, sometimes leading to chronic pain or long-term disability if left untreated. Early intervention is essential to avoid complications and promote recovery.

Common Arm Injuries That Can Occur at Work

Several types of arm injuries are common in the workplace, including:

• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Strains or tears of the tendons and muscles in the shoulder that support arm movement.
• Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Inflammation of the tendons on the outer part of the elbow, often caused by repetitive motion.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Direct trauma can lead to fractures of the arm, wrist, or shoulder.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints, often caused by repetitive movements or prolonged pressure.
• Sprains and Strains: Damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the arm, often from overexertion or awkward movements.

What Causes Work-Related Arm Injuries?

Work-related arm injuries have a variety of causes, many of which stem from the nature of a person’s job duties. Some of the most common causes include:

• Repetitive Movements: Tasks that involve the same motion repeatedly, like typing or using machinery, can strain muscles, tendons, and nerves.
• Heavy Lifting: Jobs that require lifting heavy objects can cause acute injuries or chronic overuse injuries.
• Sudden Trauma: Falls, equipment accidents, or being struck by an object can cause fractures, sprains, or dislocations.
• Poor Ergonomics: Workstations that aren’t properly set up can place stress on the arms, wrists, and shoulders, increasing the risk of injury.
• Vibration Exposure: Prolonged use of vibrating tools like jackhammers or power drills can lead to nerve and circulatory issues in the arms and hands.

Signs and Symptoms of Arm Injuries

The symptoms of work-related arm injuries can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Watch for signs such as:

• Pain: This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on the injury.
• Swelling and Inflammation: In conditions like bursitis or sprains, swelling may occur.
• Numbness or Tingling: Often associated with nerve-related issues like carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Weakness: If you’re unable to grip objects or lift your arm, it could signal a serious injury.
• Stiffness or Limited Range of Motion: Often seen with rotator cuff injuries or frozen shoulder.
• Visible Deformity: This may occur with fractures or dislocations.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it may be time to seek medical attention.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if your arm injury results in:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter medications.
• Chronic pain that persists for weeks or months, impacting your ability to work or sleep.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness that may suggest nerve compression.
• Swelling or inflammation that doesn’t go away.
• Loss of function in the arm, wrist, or shoulder.

Seeking medical care early can prevent the injury from worsening and reduce the need for more intensive treatments later. Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow specializes in treating work-related arm injuries with both surgical and non-surgical options.

Treatment Options for Work-Related Arm Injuries

Treatment for arm injuries depends on the type, severity, and location of the injury. Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow offers a range of treatments, from conservative care to advanced surgical options.

• Rest and Immobilization: Splints, braces, or slings may be used to stabilize the affected area.
• Physical Therapy: A key component of recovery, physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For some injuries, corticosteroid injections may help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: For severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair damaged tendons, nerves, or bones.

How to Recover from a Work-Related Arm Injury

Recovery from work-related arm injuries can be a gradual process, but there are steps you can take to promote healing:

1. Follow Your Doctor’s Advice: Adhering to your treatment plan is essential for a full recovery.
2. Rest and Protect the Injury: Avoid activities that might aggravate the injury. Use braces or splints as recommended.
3. Participate in Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises help restore range of motion, improve strength, and reduce the risk of re-injury.
4. Manage Pain: Use ice packs or heat therapy as directed to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
5. Stay Consistent: Recovery can take time, especially for injuries like rotator cuff tears or carpal tunnel syndrome, so be patient and consistent with your treatment.

Get Professional Help for Work-Related Arm Injuries

Work-related arm injuries can significantly impact your quality of life, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team of experienced specialists at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow is dedicated to helping patients recover from injuries affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. We offer a variety of treatment options, including physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and surgery when needed.

If you’re dealing with a work-related injury, contact one of our specialists in Marietta and Atlanta, GA, today! Take the first step toward reducing pain and regaining control of your daily life.