Most people don’t think about their bursae, or even know what they are, until they cause problems. Bursae are small sacs of fluid that cushion the muscles, tendons, and bones near the joints in your body and help your muscles slide over your joints smoothly and effortlessly. However, when they become inflamed, there is pain that increases with pressure and movement.  

Bursitis is caused for many reasons including scoliosis, gout, and inflammatory arthritis. However, it is most commonly caused by repetitive movement and excessive pressure that irritate the bursae around a joint.

How Does Bursitis Qualify for Workers’ Comp?

You may find that some symptoms of bursitis come on suddenly, while others occur gradually. Pain, achiness, and stiffness are common symptoms of the condition, as are swelling and redness over the joint. If the pain becomes too difficult to work, you may qualify for workers’ compensation. Here are two ways bursitis may qualify:

  • Joint dysfunction. Bursitis doesn’t have a specific listing in the Social Security blue book. However, you may qualify if you can prove you have joint dysfunction—partial dislocation of the joint or bony or fibrous anklyosis caused by bursitis.  
  • Physical limitations on activity. If you don’t qualify under joint dysfunction, you may be able to collect workers’ comp if you can prove the bursitis limits your activities and prevents you from being able to work. Social Security will measure your physical and mental limitations by using its Residual Function Capacity form. If the results show you are unable to work because of the bursitis, you may receive workers’ comp.

You Deserve Help

Collecting workers’ comp for bursitis shouldn’t be difficult, but you may need help. If you’ve been turned down or need assistance during the application process, call the attorneys of Johnson and Gilbert at 800.556.8890 to set up your free consultation. Be sure to request a complimentary copy of the book, It’s Not Rocket Science, It’s Workers’ Comp.

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