Seamen are Vulnerable to Knee Overuse Injuries

As a seaman, lifting and carrying heavy loads is part of your job description.  You may not think much about it; you can handle hard work.  But, over time, the heavy lifting may be causing serious knee injuries.
 
Knee overuse injuries are characterized by pain felt around the front or sides of the knee joint.  The knee slowly begins to hurt, and the pain cannot be traced specific injury such as a slip or fall. 
 
There are several types of overuse knee injuries:

•  Patellofemoral joint pain: Pain in the front of the knee that is accompanied by grinding or clicking.
  
• Patellar tendinitis: Patellar tendinitis is also known as jumper's knee. It can be caused by periods of heavy physical activity, being overweight, tight leg muscles and/or the uneven strain put on the knees while trying to keep balance at sea. Symptoms include pain after physical activity that becomes a constant ache.
•  Quadriceps tendinitis: Quadriceps tendinitis is very common and is caused by excess strain on the knees and legs. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, localized tenderness and a warmth or burning sensation.
•  Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled cavities in the knee. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness and swelling.

 
Seamen who suffer knee injuries may be entitled to compensation under Jones Act Law.  Learn more in our article, "Your Offshore Knee Injury May Be Covered Under the Jones Act."
 
To discuss your own injury or for information about your Jones Act rights, contact the maritime attorneys at The Young Firm, 866-938-5596.