If your workers need to reach, lift and carry, twist their bodies, or perform other activities that place them under strain, their shoulders might be at risk.
As the most mobile and one of the most versatile joints in the body, the shoulder is highly vulnerable to musculo‑skeletal disorders (MSDs). Recovering from these injuries takes an average of 21 days, which is one of the longer recovery periods for on‑the‑job accidents.
To understand how these injuries affect costs and coverage, see Workers' Compensation Overview: Costs, Coverage, Injuries, Volunteers, Age Trends.
Prevention tips
- Minimize lifting. Provide mechanical assists (carts, slings, dollies, jacks, etc.) to raise and hold objects, and place materials as close as practical to where they will be used.
- Lighten the load. When lifting can’t be eliminated, or when items must be held at arm's length, make tools and materials as light as practical; where possible, use team lifts for heavy objects.
- Control motion. One of the most dangerous situations is a "save"—when a load shifts or slips and a worker attempts to prevent a fall; hold work pieces in place using a jack or brace to reduce that risk.
- Improve the grip. Lifting requires more force when there is no easy way to grasp an object; consider removable suction handles or temporary handles for flat surfaces like drywall panels.
- Encourage rest and stretching. Workers can minimize damage from repetitive shoulder stress by taking frequent short breaks (15–20 seconds) and stretching gently to relieve tension in overworked muscles and ligaments.
For practical guidance on reducing workplace injuries and improving safety practices, see Workplace Safety and Injury Prevention.
If you’d like personalized help, please talk to an agent about risk controls and coverage options for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What common tasks cause shoulder injuries at work?
Repetitive overhead work, frequent lifting, carrying heavy loads, and sudden efforts to catch or stabilize shifting items are common causes.
How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery varies by injury but the average time away from work for shoulder MSDs is around three weeks; more severe cases can take longer.
Can stretching and breaks really prevent shoulder injuries?
Yes; regular short breaks and gentle stretching reduce muscle fatigue and lower the risk of overuse injuries when combined with safer work practices.
When should an employer consult an expert?
Consult a workplace safety expert when injuries recur, when tasks require frequent overhead work or heavy lifting, or when ergonomic changes are needed.