Fact Checked If you’ve had a knee, hip, or shoulder replaced, you’re certainly not alone — and you may have a Wisconsin workers’ compensation claim.
Many workers are surprised to learn that joint replacements are often covered under worker’s compensation even if they happen years after the original injury — especially if you first had an earlier procedure like a meniscus repair for the knee or an arthroscopic surgery for your shoulder. If the progression of the damaged joint eventually results in the need for a joint replacement, you may still be entitled to full workers’ compensation benefits.
Here’s what every Wisconsin worker should know:
1. You May Still Be Covered — Even Years After the Injury
For many workers, initial injuries like a torn meniscus, labral tear, or rotator cuff result in a surgery, recovery and a return to full duty work. However, years down the road, those conditions later could result in ongoing symptoms and require a joint replacement. The good news is that Wisconsin workers’ comp may still apply — as long as the doctor says the replacement is a continuation from the original work injury or surgery.
2. Joint Replacements Mean Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Wisconsin law recognizes that a joint replacement causes permanent changes. Even if your recovery goes well and you return to work, you can claim PPD benefits based on the body part affected and the type of surgery that occurred.
3. Medical Expenses Are Covered for Life
If your joint replacement is connected to your work injury, all related medical treatment can be claimed—including follow-up visits, out-of-pocket expenses, physical therapy, and even revision surgeries in the future.
4. Vocational Rehabilitation May Be Available
If your new joint limits your ability to perform your previous job, you may qualify for vocational retraining benefits, where we can claim the worker’s compensation insurance company should send you back to school (and pay for it–including tuition and books!).
5. Don’t Assume It’s Too Late — or Too Minor
We talk to workers all the time who didn’t realize their current joint problems were tied to that “old injury” or “minor surgery” years ago. Don’t give up benefits you’ve earned. The law is generally on the side of the worker if your physician connects the joint replacement to the old injury or surgery.
We’re Here for Injured Workers Across Wisconsin
At Domer Law, we’ve helped workers in all industries — from factory floors to hospital halls — secure benefits after joint replacements tied to old injuries. Whether your surgery is scheduled or already behind you, we can make sure you get what you’re owed.
