Minnesota Workers’ Comp for Tendonitis

Tendonitis may not seem as severe as a broken bone or head trauma, but it can be just as disabling, especially if it develops and worsens over time. It is a surprisingly common occupational injury in Minnesota, especially in physically demanding and repetitive jobs.

Whether you are lifting patients as a nurse, using tools on a construction site, or performing the same motion repeatedly on an assembly line, the daily wear and tear can lead to a painful and disabling condition.

At Atkinson Gerber, we represent injured workers throughout St. Paul, Minneapolis, and the rest of the state who have tendonitis and other cumulative injuries. Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience, and we know the difficulties involved in proving that a repetitive-use injury, such as tendonitis, is work-related. We also know how to make the system work for you.

Contact Atkinson Gerber today at 651-390-9219 or fill out the contact form on our website for a free consultation.

Understanding Work-Related Tendonitis

Tendonitis is an inflammation of a tendon, which is the tough connective tissue that links muscles to bones. Tendonitis is commonly the result of overuse or repetitive strain on a particular joint or muscle group. This differentiates tendonitis from many other injuries in the workplace, which are generally the result of a specific, one-time event.

Employees across many industries are at risk of developing tendonitis through repetitive tasks, such as:

• Lifting
• Pulling
• Reaching
• Typing
• Gripping

These repeated motions result in tendon inflammation, which leads to pain, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Because tendonitis generally occurs over time, rather than from one injury-producing incident, workers are sometimes slow to seek treatment or think of it as “just part of the job” until the condition becomes severe and painful.

Workers’ Compensation for Tendonitis in Minnesota

In Minnesota, if your job caused or materially contributed to your tendonitis, then you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, because tendonitis is what is called an “insidious” injury, rather than the result of a single, specific event, insurers will often fight your claim, citing age, hobbies, or pre-existing conditions as the source of the problem.

Your workers’ comp claim for tendonitis requires proof that your employment activities directly led to your injury. Your experienced attorney can develop your case to demonstrate that your tendonitis developed because of workplace tasks. Atkinson Gerber has the experience to handle your claim.

Common Types of Tendonitis

Tendonitis can occur in almost any joint in the body where tendons attach muscle to bone, particularly in areas that are prone to repetitive use or overuse. The physical demands of different jobs determine which joints in workplaces are more at risk.

The following are some of the most common types of tendonitis we see in Minnesota workers’ compensation claims:

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis (Shoulder)

These are often caused by overhead activity, lifting, or awkward arm positions. They are common in construction, painting, and healthcare work.

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (Wrist/Thumb)

This condition results from performing repeated thumb or wrist motions, often due to typing tasks or working on assembly lines. Workers in retail settings, office environments, and warehouse operations face an increased risk.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis).

The outer elbow can develop problems from repeated gripping actions, tool operations, and forceful arm movements. This is common in mechanics and factory workers.

Achilles Tendonitis (Heel/Lower Leg)

People who stand for extended periods, walk frequently on hard ground, or ascend stairs can develop this condition. Healthcare aides, delivery drivers, and custodians often face this condition.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

The inner side of the elbow can develop pain from repetitive pulling or lifting actions, along with twisting motions. Tradespeople and workers in the cleaning and food service industries commonly suffer from this condition.

If left untreated, these conditions can worsen. What may begin as a little discomfort can lead to a lot of pain and chronic limitations, so early diagnosis and treatment are important.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Tendonitis

If your claim is accepted, you may be eligible for the following benefits under Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system. These benefits are intended to help you recover from a work-related injury, both physically and financially. They are awarded without needing to prove fault or negligence.

You may be entitled to:

• Health benefits, such as doctor appointments, physical therapy treatments, necessary medications, and required surgical operations
• Wage-loss benefits if your tendonitis prevents you from working or interferes with your ability to earn your usual salary
• Vocational rehabilitation is needed if you cannot return to your old job and need training or assistance to transition to a different career
• Permanent partial disability benefits if your injury causes long-term impairment

Securing these benefits is not always as straightforward as it should be. Insurance companies are notorious for trying to downplay or deny tendonitis claims because the process is based on repetitive wear and tear. Atkinson Gerber can fight for your future and livelihood.

What to Do If You Think Your Tendonitis Is Work-Related

If your tendonitis may be related to your job, timing is crucial. In Minnesota, you must report a work injury as soon as possible. With repetitive-use injuries, this means you should inform your employer as soon as you think your injury could be work-related.

Do not wait until you are formally diagnosed before you report your symptoms. Reporting early makes for a stronger case and can prevent issues with your claim later.

Contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. They can advise you of your rights and guide you through the process from beginning to end.

Find a doctor who is knowledgeable about workplace injuries.

Explain:

• Your job responsibilities
• How frequently you perform them
• How your symptoms relate to the work you do.

Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, treatments, and time lost from work.

Contact Atkinson Gerber Today for a Free Consultation

While tendonitis might begin as a minor irritation, it shouldn’t control your life ahead. You have rights under Minnesota law if your job caused or aggravated your injury. Don’t wait until your condition gets unbearable or the employer’s insurance carrier denies your claim.

Call Atkinson Gerber today at 651-333-3636 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.