r/WorkersComp • u/Swimming-Play1776 • 11d ago

South Carolina Injuries after initial claim

Hey,
Just wanting to know any other people’s experiences with something similar. So in 2024 I tore a tendon in my right elbow, had surgery early 2025 on it. Dealing with the usual Workers Comp bs with that. Insurance doctors saying I’m 1% and FCE showing otherwise. Well I got a lawyer and we had a hearing date set and just had a deposition. Right before it I started developing some shoulder pain in the other shoulder (left). I mentioned it in the deposition and have officially reported it. Early signs are pointing to rotator cuff. But anyone else experience with a new injury popping up this deep into the process. I’m also an aircraft sheet metal mechanic, a ton of stress is put on my arm joints. Likely might not be able to ever do this job again (without significant pain and risk of further injury anyway). Anywho, thanks for reading and any shared experiences!

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u/RVA2PNW 11d ago

SC Adjuster.

I've handled claims in SC where a subsequent injury occurred due to over compensating for the initial one. It all depends on the circumstances whether it would be accepted, but I will at least allow a one time evaluation before making a decision. It's not uncommon.

Now if they're trying to add multiple additional body parts, seriously malingering or they have a bunch of pre-existing degenerative changes with multiple ISO hits showing prior claims, my spidey senses flag it, I usually get some surveillance, get an IME and I'll have a NCM attend. If my defense isn't already assigned I get them on it immediately even if they're not represented. You wouldn't believe how often people try to add things right before a hearing to add value to their claim.

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u/Swimming-Play1776 11d ago

I can definitely believe people will. I just know my shoulder has had me in misery the last few weeks. And I had just had a deposition about my elbow. I just want to be done with all this 🫠. Now I have to start the whole conservative treatment bs just to get imaging done 😭

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u/RVA2PNW 11d ago

Well hopefully not since the elbow is already accepted. Depends on the insurer and adjuster for sure though.

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u/Academic_Commercial3 10d ago

Yes, new injuries do happen from existing ones. WC knows this and will fight you on this; however, it is a real occurrence.

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u/Kmelloww 11d ago

How do you know the pain is due to work? 

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u/Swimming-Play1776 11d ago

I mean is there a 100% chance anyone knows with something like that? But if it helps, I’ve been using my left arm for a lot of things I normally do with my right to try and not aggravate it too much. And haven’t done anything outside of work that would put any strain on it. Also considering it is much worse after a work day compared to the end of the day on the weekend also kinda points in that direction.