Joint Replacements
Injuries to joints such as knee injury, shoulder injury, and hip injury, occur everyday in the workplace. Joint injuries may be the result of an acute accident, repetitive motion, or an aggravation of a pre-existing condition (such as arthritis). If pain cannot be managed through pain medications and physical therapy, then some workers may be candidates for joint replacement.
Some people believe that joint replacement surgery should be postponed as long as possible. Often, joint pain sufferers are concerned about the longevity of an implant, wanting to avoid a second surgery. They believe that if they postpone the surgery until they are older, then they may not need a second surgery. However, surgeons are increasingly recommending joint replacement to younger patients. Joint replacement can offer the potential for reduction of pain and increased mobility during prime years.
Some factors that workers with joint injuries may consider when considering a joint replacement include: the ability to work and enjoy hobbies in their current condition even with persistent pain, the failure of non-surgical treatments, and the inactivity of the afflicted joint, which may lead to other medical problems.
Worker’s compensation insurance carriers are often reluctant to authorize joint replacement surgeries for injured workers.
Klezmer Maudlin is happy to offer free telephone and email consultations. If you are in need of a joint replacement due to your work injury and the insurance company is denying this procedure, or if you have been offered a settlement and may need a joint replacement in the future due to your work injury, contact us. Our attorneys are known for their thorough representation and dedication to achieving the maximum benefits for our clients.