A shoulder injury can make lifting, reaching and other job duties painful or impossible. If the injury happened at work, you may wonder whether workers’ compensation covers your medical care and lost wages. In New Jersey, coverage may apply to both sudden injuries and shoulder conditions that develop over time.
How shoulder injuries happen at work
Shoulder injuries may result from:
- Lifting or carrying heavy materials repeatedly
- Overhead reaching or pulling on equipment
- A fall or being struck by an object
- Repetitive strain from the same shoulder movement
These activities can cause rotator cuff tears, dislocations, fractures and tendon injuries. Repeated strain also may worsen an existing condition or cause symptoms to develop gradually.
When workers’ compensation may apply
Under New Jersey workers’ compensation law, an employee may qualify for benefits when job duties cause or contribute to an injury. A single accident is not always required.
For example, a warehouse employee may develop shoulder pain after months of lifting boxes. A construction worker may tear a tendon while moving building materials. In each situation, the connection between the job and the injury matters.
Medical records, job duties and the timing of symptoms may help show that connection.
What workers’ compensation benefits may be available
Depending on the circumstances, workers’ compensation may cover reasonable medical treatment related to the shoulder injury. It also may provide temporary disability benefits if the injury prevents the employee from working.
If the injury causes lasting impairment, the employee may qualify for additional benefits. The amount and duration depend on the medical findings and effect on the person’s ability to work.
Steps to protect your claim
Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. New Jersey’s Department of Labor recommends prompt notice, and notice does not have to be in writing. If you need medical treatment, request it from your employer as soon as possible.
Seek medical care and explain which job duties caused or worsened the shoulder problem. Keep records of symptoms, appointments and missed work.
A work-related shoulder injury may qualify for benefits even when symptoms develop slowly. Prompt reporting and clear medical documentation can help establish what happened and how the injury affects your ability to work.
New Jersey workers’ compensation claims generally have a two-year filing deadline. A formal claim petition generally must be filed within two years of the injury or the last payment of compensation, whichever is later. For occupational illnesses, different timing rules can apply, including a period measured from when the worker became aware of the condition and its relationship to employment.