AC Shoulder Separation: Can I File a Tampa Workers’ Comp Claim?
Shoulder injuries are relatively common for workers in Tampa. One of the most common examples of a shoulder injury is an AC separation. This involves ligaments separating from the collarbone, and it can be quite painful. Are you eligible to file a workers’ comp claim after suffering this type of injury? Although the answer is often “yes,” you might want to discuss your unique situation with a Tampa workers’ comp lawyer.
What Is An AC Separation?
“AC” stands for acromioclavicular joint. An AC separation injury occurs when this joint separates from the shoulder blade (the scapula). Another common term for this type of injury is simply “shoulder separation.”
Most AC separations do not require surgery, although your doctor might recommend it if your injury is particularly severe. Your shoulder should heal within 12 weeks, especially if you engage in physical therapy or physiotherapy (or any other type of treatment your doctor recommends).
The recovery process can be painful and uncomfortable. You may experience pain in your shoulder, and the entire arm could become weak due to the separated joint. Doctors rank AC separations using a system of three grades. A grade 1 AC separation involves only a slight displacement of the joint. A grade 2 separation involves a partial dislocation of the joint and complete tearing of the AC ligament.
A grade 3 AC separation involves the complete separation of the entire shoulder joint, including the AC ligament, other ligaments, and the capsule that surrounds the joint. This type of injury may cause a visible bump on the shoulder.
How Do AC Separations Happen at Work?
An AC separation can easily occur after a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH). You may have tried to cushion your fall with an outstretched hand, and this might have put serious pressure on your shoulder joint. This impact may have torn and separated the AC joint. Falls are extremely common in Tampa workplaces. AC separations can also occur as a result of car accidents for professional drivers.
Can I Get Compensation for an AC Separation?
Yes. As long as your shoulder separation was work-related, you should be covered under the workers’ comp system in Florida. Of course, you can only take advantage of this system if you are legally classified as an “employee” and not an independent contractor. That being said, those without legal immigration status can still file claims.
You also need to establish that the accident occurred at work. This means you should seek treatment as soon as possible after your accident. If you delay, an insurer could try to claim that you suffered the injury after work hours, perhaps during a sports game.
Can a Tampa Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help Me?
If you suffered a shoulder AC separation, you might want to discuss your situation in more detail with a workers’ comp lawyer in Tampa. These legal professionals can help you strive for optimal results, especially if you’re already struggling with a denied claim. Continue this discussion with The Franco Law Firm and take effective steps toward meaningful compensation.
Sources:
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17909-separated-shoulder
thesteadmanclinic.com/patient-education/shoulder/ac-separation
