Rotator Cuff Surgery Workers' Comp Settlement in Illinois

Written by Lily Escorcia, workers' compensation specialist at WIN Injury Network

Quick Answer: A rotator cuff surgery workers' comp settlement in Illinois typically ranges from $60,000 to $180,000 depending on the extent of the tear, surgical outcome, and permanent disability rating. Full-thickness tears requiring major repair carry the highest values.

Rotator cuff injuries are among the most common work-related shoulder injuries, particularly in jobs involving overhead work, heavy lifting, or repetitive shoulder motions. When surgery is required, your workers' comp claim value increases significantly.

Rotator Cuff Workers' Comp Settlements by Surgery Type

Injury/Surgery TypeSettlement Range
Partial tear (arthroscopic repair)$35,000–$75,000
Full-thickness tear repair$60,000–$130,000
Massive tear with complex repair$100,000–$200,000
Revision shoulder surgery$120,000–$250,000

Illinois Schedule Loss for Shoulder Injuries

Under Illinois workers' comp law (820 ILCS 305/8(e)), shoulder injuries have a scheduled loss value of 500 weeks at 60% of your Average Weekly Wage. A 20% permanent disability rating = 100 weeks × 60% of your AWW.

Factors That Increase Your Settlement

Larger tear size, need for revision surgery, permanent restrictions from overhead work, and inability to return to your previous occupation all significantly increase settlement value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a rotator cuff injury worth in workers' comp?
Full-thickness rotator cuff repairs in Illinois typically settle between $60,000 and $130,000. Massive tears requiring complex surgery can exceed $200,000.
Does rotator cuff surgery always qualify for workers' comp?
Yes, if the injury occurred at work or was aggravated by your work duties. Both traumatic injuries and repetitive stress injuries are covered under 820 ILCS 305.
How long does rotator cuff surgery recovery take?
Most rotator cuff repairs require 4–12 months to reach MMI. Your TTD benefits continue during this entire recovery period.
Can workers' comp deny rotator cuff surgery?
Yes, but denials are common and often overturned. An IME from an independent orthopedic surgeon is usually sufficient to challenge a denial.
What permanent restrictions are common after rotator cuff surgery?
Common restrictions include no overhead lifting, no lifting over 10–20 lbs, and limited repetitive shoulder motions. These restrictions affect your PPD rating and settlement.

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