For many plumbers, the physically demanding nature of their work often takes a toll on their bodies. Over time, they can develop repetitive trauma injuries; these afflictions develop gradually over time due to the constant strain and stress on specific body parts, and they can significantly impact a plumber’s ability to perform their job effectively.
If you are an injured plumber, you may have the right to pursue a workers’ compensation claim to help pay for your medical care, lost wages, and more. Below are some of the most common injuries in this line of work.
#1: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common repetitive trauma injury among plumbers. This injury is caused by the frequent use of hand tools and the repetitive motions involved in tasks such as tightening and loosening pipes. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and wrists, which can make it difficult for plumbers to grip tools.
#2: Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
Plumbers often work with their arms raised above their heads, putting significant strain on the rotator cuff tendons in their shoulders. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and a condition known as rotator cuff tendinitis, characterized by pain, swelling, and weakness in the shoulder area. Plumbers with this injury can struggle to lift heavy objects or perform overhead work, which are essential aspects of their job.
#3: Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is a repetitive trauma injury that commonly affects plumbers due to the frequent gripping and manipulation of hand tools. This condition occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed, causing the fingers to catch or lock when bent. Plumbers with trigger finger may experience pain, stiffness, and a popping or clicking sensation in the affected fingers, making it difficult to perform tasks requiring fine motor skills or gripping objects.
#4: Knee Injuries
Plumbers often spend a significant portion of their workday kneeling, crouching, or crawling in tight spaces, which can put excessive stress on their knees. Over time, this constant pressure can lead to various knee injuries, such as bursitis or tendonitis. In some cases, knee injuries may require extended time off work for recovery and rehabilitation.
#5: Lower Back Strain
Plumbers are constantly lifting, carrying, and maneuvering heavy pipes and equipment, which can put significant strain on their lower back muscles. Over time, this can lead to lower back strain and symptoms like pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the lower back area. This injury can make it challenging for plumbers to perform physical tasks and may even require them to take time off work to recover.
Schedule a Free Consultation for Your Plumbing Injury Claim
If you are a plumber struggling with a repetitive trauma injury, you have the right to secure benefits to help pay for your care. At Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer, we understand the impact that these injuries can have on your career and quality of life. Our attorneys can fight for the benefits you deserve.
Contact us today at (612) 230-4585 to schedule a free consultation with our Minnesota workers’ comp attorney. We’ll listen to your story, assess your case, and help you understand your options.
