Last Updated on June 3, 2025 by tanya

Torn Cartilage Injuries at Work

 

More Than Just A Knee Problem and How to Claim Compensation

 

Torn cartilage injuries at work are a common yet often overlooked workplace hazard. While cartilage injuries are often associated with the knees, the reality is that cartilage damage can occur in multiple areas of the body. This can include the wrists, hips, shoulders, and ankles.

A torn cartilage injury is a serious matter and if you were injured in this way due to unsafe practices at work, you may want to seek compensation. This type of injury can happen due to a slip, trip, fall or repetitive strain from prolonged use.

For a successful claim, you need to be able to show employer negligence. This may include factors such as improper training, a lack of PPE or unsafe working environment. As workplace injuries can be complicated, our team at First Personal Injury can help you navigate this process.

We work with highly experienced lawyers who will assess your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

 

Symptoms Of A Torn Cartilage

Cartilage is a flexible, strong connective tissue found in various parts of the body, including joints. It acts as a form of padding between bones and helps joints move smoothly. There are different types of cartilage, but articular cartilage (found in joints) is the most vulnerable to workplace injuries.

A torn cartilage injury typically results from trauma, repetitive strain, or unnatural movements that cause the cartilage to wear down, tear, or become inflamed. Symptoms may include:

 

• Joint pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Reduced mobility
• Clicking or locking of the joint

 

These symptoms may impair an individual’s ability to work, particularly in physically demanding roles.

 

Torn Cartilage Injuries Beyond the Knee

When people hear “torn cartilage,” they often think of an injured knee. However, while these are common in workplace settings, especially in industries like construction, logistics, and healthcare, cartilage damage can affect other joints as well.

Here are some examples of non-knee cartilage injuries at work:

 

1. Shoulder Cartilage Tears (Labral Tears)

Labral cartilage lines the shoulder socket. Repetitive overhead lifting, sudden falls, or heavy manual handling can result in labral tears.

 

2. Hip Cartilage Injuries

Damage to the labrum in the hip joint can result from slips, falls, or repetitive strain. Workers in roles requiring frequent squatting or lifting are at increased risk of this type of injury.

 

3. Wrist Cartilage Damage (TFCC Injuries)

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) in the wrist can tear due to excessive twisting or pressure. Office workers using poor ergonomic setups and manual workers using hand tools are both vulnerable to TFCC injury.

 

4. Ankle Cartilage Tears

These injuries can result from falls, awkward landings, or twisting injuries. They are common in delivery roles, catering, and factory jobs.

 

Common Causes of Torn Cartilage Injuries at Work

Here are some of the causes which may tear cartilage:

 

• Manual handling: Lifting heavy loads incorrectly
• Repetitive motions: Tasks that stress the same joint repeatedly
• Slips, trips, and falls: A leading cause of joint trauma
• Faulty or inadequate PPE: Improper footwear or lack of joint support
• Unsafe working conditions: Wet floors, cluttered walkways, poor lighting

 

If any of these hazards led to your injury, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

 

Can You Claim Compensation for a Torn Cartilage Injury?

Under health and safety laws, employers have a legal duty to protect employees from injury. If you’ve sustained a torn cartilage injury at work due to your employer’s negligence, you could be entitled to make a personal injury claim.

Here’s some important points you need to know:

 

Time Limit to Claim

You generally have three years from the date of the injury (or from the date you became aware the injury was work-related) to make a claim.

 

Proving Employer Negligence

You must demonstrate that your employer:

• Breached their duty of care
• Failed to provide a safe working environment
• Didn’t offer adequate training or equipment

 

Medical Evidence

You’ll need a formal medical diagnosis of your cartilage injury. Scans such as MRIs are often required to confirm the extent and location of the tear.

 

Documenting the Incident

For a successful claim:

• Report the injury to your employer immediately
• Ensure it’s logged in the workplace accident book and if possible, get a copy
• Take photos of any unsafe conditions
• Get witness statements if possible

 

How Much Compensation Could You Receive?

The amount of compensation for a torn cartilage injury depends on several factors which may include:

 

• Severity and permanence of the injury
• Loss of earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Cost of medical treatment
• Impact on quality of life

 

Preventing Cartilage Injuries in the Workplace

While you may be able to claim compensation, prevention is always better than cure. Employers should:

 

• Conduct regular risk assessments
• Provide proper manual handling training
• Maintain a clean, safe working environment
• Ensure ergonomic workstations
• Offer suitable PPE (e.g. knee pads, wrist supports)

 

Employees should also take care to follow procedures, report hazards, and seek early medical attention for joint pain.

 

Take The Next Step

If you suspect you have been sustained a torn cartilage injury at work which was not your fault, it is advisable to act quickly and gather your evidence. A free, no-obligation initial consultation with one of our team can get you started.

We partner with lawyers who are experienced in work injuries and who offer a ‘No Win, No Fee’ agreement. This ensures you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online.