Epicondylitis

While many workplace injuries arise out of accidents, others are caused by repetitive stress on muscles and joints. For example, epicondylitis is a painful condition commonly caused by repetitive motions or heavy lifting in the workplace. Thankfully, under Maryland law, workers who develop injuries due to their employment may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In claims involving epicondylitis, though, an employer may dispute the work-related nature of the injury, which can make recovering benefits complicated. If you sustained epicondylitis because of your work conditions, it is in your best interest to speak to an attorney about your options. The experienced Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys at Foran & Foran, P.A., have significant experience handling complicated claims for benefits, and we are equipped to help you fight to protect your interests.

Epicondylitis refers to inflammation or damage to the tendons that attach to the bony prominences on the inside or outside of the elbow. This condition is typically caused by repetitive gripping, lifting, or wrist extension movements that strain the forearm muscles and tendons. Workers who frequently perform these motions, like carpenters, painters, mechanics, assembly line employees, and office workers who type extensively, are particularly vulnerable to developing epicondylitis.

The harm caused by epicondylitis can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and disability. People suffering from this condition may experience tenderness, aching, and weakness in their elbow, forearm, and hand, which can make it difficult to perform essential tasks. Activities like lifting objects, turning doorknobs, or using tools can become painful and challenging. Without appropriate treatment, epicondylitis can worsen over time, potentially leading to chronic pain and permanent damage that limits the individual’s ability to work or complete daily activities. Treatment often requires rest, physical therapy, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery—all of which can result in significant medical expenses and lost income.

Maryland’s Workers’ Compensation Act provides protections for employees who suffer from workplace injuries or occupational diseases, including epicondylitis. Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to address both medical expenses and wage losses caused by work-related harm.

Medical benefits include coverage for doctor’s visits, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, medications, and surgical treatments if necessary. For workers who require specialized medical care, such as ergonomic adjustments or occupational therapy, these benefits ensure access to treatment aimed at improving functionality and reducing pain.

Wage replacement benefits are calculated based on the worker’s average weekly wage prior to the injury. If the worker is temporarily unable to perform any job duties due to epicondylitis, they may receive temporary total disability benefits equal to two-thirds of their average weekly wage, up to a statutory cap. For employees who can return to work in a limited capacity, temporary partial disability benefits are available to compensate for the difference between pre-injury earnings and reduced wages.

If epicondylitis results in permanent impairment, workers may be entitled to permanent partial disability benefits. The compensation is determined by the severity of the impairment, the worker’s pre-injury wage, and the number of weeks assigned to arm-related injuries under Maryland’s statutory schedule. For example, significant damage that limits the use of the arm or hand can entitle the worker to benefits for a set number of weeks, multiplied by a percentage of their pre-injury wage. Permanent total disability benefits, which are paid when the worker can no longer engage in any gainful employment, are calculated at two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage and may continue for the remainder of their life.

Epicondylitis is a painful and often debilitating condition that can significantly impact your ability to perform your job and maintain your livelihood. If you are experiencing symptoms of epicondylitis caused by repetitive or strenuous workplace activities, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, and you should contact an attorney. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our skilled Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys are committed to helping victims of workplace accidents seek the benefits they deserve, and if we represent you, we will argue zealously on your behalf. From our office in Greenbelt, Maryland, we represent clients throughout Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, La Plata, Waldorf, Silver Spring, Rockville, and cities throughout Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, as well as all counties in the State of Maryland. To schedule a free and confidential consultation, please contact us online or call (301) 441-2022.