St. Louis Workplace Injury – Muscle Damage and Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious medical condition that can result from a workplace injury.

Workplace accidents can cause a variety of injuries and health conditions. Rhabdomyolysis is one such condition, which is caused when injured muscle tissue breaks down. The deterioration of muscle tissue releases the by-products of the damaged muscle cells into the bloodstream. Some of these by-products, such as myoglobin, are toxic to the kidneys and can cause kidney failure.

Work-Related Causes of Rhabdomyolysis

• crush injury from a building collapse, auto accident, or fall
• electrical shock injury
• third-degree burns
• muscle compression resulting from prolonged immobilization after lying unconscious on a hard surface or after a fall

Non-traumatic causes of rhabdomyolysis include:

• severe exhaustion
• metabolic or muscle disorders
• bacterial and viral infections
• extreme body temperatures
• severe dehydration
• use of certain drugs such as heroin, cocaine, statins, and amphetamines

Symptoms of Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious health condition and can be life-threatening if it is not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. It is important to correctly identify the signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis. Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include:

• dark-colored bruises
• general weakness
• decreased urine output
• tenderness and stiffness in affected muscles
• achy or stiff muscles
• joint pain
• seizures

Timely diagnosis and treatment can help a patient suffering from a relatively minor case of rhabdomyolysis to recover within a few weeks. Those with an advanced case may suffer from permanent symptoms of muscle pain and fatigue.

St. Louis Workmens Compensation Attorney

The Missouri workers’ compensation system covers a part of lost wages and medical expenses for a workplace injury. The worker may be entitled to additional benefits such as disfigurement benefits, compensation for loss of limbs or other body parts. If you sustained a workplace injury and have developed a serious condition such as rhabdomyolysis as a result, talk to a St. Louis workmens compensation attorney to learn about your legal rights. Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300 for a free consultation.

Work Related Injuries