Upper-Limb Injury by Tradespeople: When to Get Back to Work?
Recovering from an upper-limb injury (shoulder, elbow, rotator cuff or wrist) can be challenging for tradespeople who rely on arm strength and flexibility. The good news is that most people can return to work safely with the right approach.
Key steps include resting and protecting the injured area initially, then gradually restoring movement. For example, even mild activity is “medicine”; gentle, purposeful movements help rewire the brain for recovery and rebuild strength. Always follow any doctor or physiotherapist guidance on exercises and avoid pushing through severe pain.
What to Do After an Injury?
- Rest and protect the arm first. After the injury, give your shoulder or elbow time to calm down. Use ice packs or a sling if advised and avoid bending or lifting the arm in painful ways for a few days.
- Get checked by a professional. See your GP or physiotherapist early to diagnose the injury. Minor strains may improve with simple care, but a full shoulder dislocation or a suspected fracture needs prompt treatment.
- Communicate with your employer and rehab team. Let your boss or site manager know about the injury and any limits you have. Open communication ensures you get the support and workplace adjustments you need.
- Keep moving gently as able. Within pain limits, continue with recommended exercises or stretches. This may include simple shoulder rotations, elbow bends, or hand movements. Maintaining good overall health (sleep, nutrition, exercise) also supports healing.
- Return gradually. When you start back at work, go slow. Begin with light duties or shorter hours and increase workload over time. Listen to your body: take breaks, and don’t hesitate to modify tasks (for example, alternate between sitting and standing, or switch arms regularly). Remember, returning to work isn’t a race – a phased, step-by-step return often prevents re-injury and builds confidence safely.
- Mind your mental health. An injury can be frustrating and stressful. It’s normal to feel worried or down about missing work. Be patient with yourself, and seek support from family, friends or counselors if you feel anxious or depressed during recovery.
Precautions for Tradespeople After Injury
Once you start using your arm again, precautions are essential to protect the healing tissues. Adjust how you work to avoid straining the injured limb. For example, keep most tasks at waist height and bring objects close to your body instead of reaching overhead. This helps take stress off the shoulder and rotator cuff tendons.
Also avoid heavy or awkward lifting until your arm is much stronger If you need to move a load, use a trolley or ask a coworker for help. Limit repetitive motions and give yourself regular breaks; frequent changes of posture (even a quick stretch) can prevent swelling and fatigue.
- Report pain early. Don’t ignore new or worsening aches. Let your employer or health provider know if you feel persistent pain, tingling or weakness in the arm. Early reporting often means earlier treatment. In fact, HSE guidance notes that workers who report symptoms promptly often make a complete recovery once treated.
- Use supports if recommended. Depending on the injury, a doctor may suggest a brace, tape or sling for temporary support. For example, wearing a shoulder brace or elbow strap (as directed) can help stabilize the joint while it heals.
By taking these precautions you greatly reduce the risk of re-injury as you return to work.
When to See a Specialist
Most mild strains or sprains improve with basic care and physiotherapy. However, certain red flags mean you should get expert help right away:
- Persistent or severe symptoms. If pain or swelling doesn’t start getting better after a few days, or if it’s getting worse despite rest, see a doctor. Likewise, numbness, tingling or significant loss of strength or motion in the arm should not be ignored.
These signs may indicate a nerve issue or a more serious tear (for example, a rotator cuff tendon tear in the shoulder) that needs evaluation.
- Visible deformity or inability to move. If your shoulder looks out of place, or you cannot move the arm, you may have a dislocation or fracture. Do not try to pop it back yourself. A medical professional should realign a dislocation to avoid further damage.
- Failed conservative care. If you have been following a rehab program (exercises, rest, medications) for a few weeks and still have intense pain or limited use, it’s wise to consult an orthopaedic specialist. Early diagnosis is key: studies show that “people with ULDs often completely recover if the problem is recognized early and treated appropriately”. In other words, getting the right diagnosis sooner can greatly shorten your time off work.
In summary, minor injuries can often be managed with your GP or physiotherapist. But see a shoulder/elbow specialist if you have worried symptoms (lasting pain, numbness, weakness) or any traumatic injury. An early evaluation can prevent a small problem from becoming a long-term setback.
How Dr. Oscar Brumby-Rendell Can Help
Dr. Oscar Brumby-Rendell is an Adelaide-based orthopedic surgeon who specializes in upper-limb injuries. He heads the Adelaide Shoulder & Upper Limb Clinic (ASULC) and has extensive training in treating both sports and workplace injuries to the arm.
Dr. Brumby-Rendell will tailor treatment to your needs. For many injuries, he starts with non-surgical care: targeted physiotherapy exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, splints or braces, and possibly corticosteroid injections to reduce pain. These measures often ease symptoms and strengthen the joint during recovery.
