Knee injuries are one of the most common orthopedic injuries that occur in the workplace. Damage to the knee can result from both accidents and overuse. Many people make the mistake of assuming that knee damage is simply the result of aging. However, in many circumstances, it is actually because of overuse or repetitive movements like kneeling and bending. Even standing in one place for long periods of time can result in damage to your knees.
If you think that your knee injury is because of your work activities, you need to talk to an Los Angeles orthopedic injury attorney to determine if you should be getting workers compensation benefits.
Knee Injuries Due to Accident at Work
Damage to your knee can occur regardless of your occupation. However, those who must lift heavy items regularly and those who must stand or walk for their entire shift are more prone to knee injuries.
Falls are by far the most common cause of knee injuries. Even near-falls can cause the knee to twist and bend in a way that can cause long-term damage. Being hit in the knee by an object can also cause severe injuries as well.
Accidents can cause these common knee injuries:
- Sprains and strains
- Ligament tears
- Meniscus tears
- Kneecap dislocation
- Bone fractures
Knee injuries can also result in chronic knee pain or mobility problems as well, even after you undergo surgery or physical therapy.
Damage From Overuse of The Knee
Chronic knee pain and problems can be the result of overuse at work, whether you are bending or merely standing in one place for hours at a time. Years (or even months) of doing the same job is hard on your body, and it can wear down your knees.
Examples of problems that arise from overuse of the knee include:
- Osteoarthrosis
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Chondromalacia patella
Most of these problems cause inflammation in the knee, which can make it much harder to bend your knees. That can mean that doing your job can become more painful.
Knee Injuries and Workers Compensation
You may not realize that your knee pain is due to your job for some time. But, you should think about how much you use your knees on a daily basis at work. Are you carrying a lot of weight regularly? Do you have to bend frequently? Are you standing in one spot for hours at a time? Any of these could indicate that your knee problems are actually related to your job.
As orthopedic injury attorneys in Los Angeles, the Law Offices of Kropach & Kropach can help you find a doctor that will determine whether your knee problems are a direct result of your job. Having this causation opinion will be very helpful for your case. Then, we can help you get the medical care and workers compensation benefits that you deserve due to your injury. Keep in mind that there are time limits that apply to your claim—don’t want to make the call: 818-609-7005.
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