Workers are at risk of significant injuries, some of which involve the knee. These injuries can stem from cumulative trauma, but they can also occur because of a traumatic incident.
Things like slips and falls are primary risks. Other risks include frequent kneeling or squatting. Regardless of how knee injuries happen, they can have a significant impact on the worker’s life.
Cumulative trauma injuries
Knee injuries often occur gradually due to repeated stress or poor workplace ergonomics. These can be difficult to detect, but early treatment can help to reduce the severity of the damage. Bursitis, osteoarthritis and tendinitis are three of the more common overuse injuries that can occur.
Many cumulative trauma injuries start off with symptoms like tenderness or soreness at the site of the damage. They may go away with rest at first. As time goes on, there’s a chance that they will become worse. Eventually, traditional ways to address knee problems won’t work. By that point, the damage may be significant enough to require surgery and therapy.
Traumatic injuries
Traumatic knee injuries can stem from falls, awkward movements or lifting heavy items. These injuries include meniscus tears, dislocations, fractures and ligament strains. They are associated with immediate pain, which is sometimes intense.
Any worker who suffers an injury, including one to the knee, at work should get medical care right away. The damage may worsen if proper medical attention isn’t received. Because the injury occurred at work, the medical expenses should be covered by workers’ compensation. Workers may have to fight to get the benefits they’re due. Working with someone familiar with these matters may help them as they go through this.