Osteoarthritis Compensation Claims
Check if you can claim compensation
If you’ve developed osteoarthritis because of your work, you may be able to claim. We handle osteoarthritis claims across the UK and will explain your options clearly and help you understand the next steps.
Regulated solicitors
Years' experience
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Can you make an osteoarthritis claim?
You may be able to make a claim if your osteoarthritis was caused or made worse by years of physical work, and your employer failed to protect you. That includes heavy lifting, repetitive movement, or working conditions that put your joints at risk.
A claim is usually made against whoever was responsible, such as an employer or their insurer. If you are not sure whether you can claim, our team can check it for you.
Why work-related osteoarthritis leads to a claim
Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears down over time. It often affects the knees, hips, hands, back and shoulders. For many people it is part of getting older, but for some it is caused or accelerated by the physical demands of their job.
Many of these cases could have been prevented. Where an employer failed in their duty to keep a worker safe from known risks, the person affected may have grounds to claim.
Employers have a legal duty to reduce the risk of injury from heavy lifting and repetitive work. That means proper training, the right equipment, and safe working practices. Where that duty was breached and it harmed you, a claim may be possible.
Common causes of osteoarthritis claims
You may be eligible to claim if your osteoarthritis was caused or worsened by your employer’s negligence.
Heavy lifting & manual handling
Years of frequent lifting or repetitive movement, often without proper training or equipment. Your employer has a legal duty to reduce these risks.
Kneeling, crouching & vibrating tools
Long periods on your knees, or regular use of vibrating tools, can wear down joints in the knees, hips, hands and wrists over time.
An injury that accelerated it
A workplace accident can damage a joint and worsen osteoarthritis. If it was caused by negligence, you may be able to claim.
Whatever caused your osteoarthritis, if it was linked to unsafe or negligent work, it is worth checking. Tell us what happened and we will let you know where you stand.
How much compensation for osteoarthritis?
There is no single figure. The amount depends on how serious your osteoarthritis is, which joint is affected, how it limits your daily life, and any financial losses that follow, such as lost earnings or treatment costs.
We will never promise a set amount. Once an independent medical report and your work history are in, your solicitor will explain what your claim may include.
- Pain, suffering and the effect on your daily life
- Lost earnings, now and in the future
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Care and help from family with daily tasks
- Travel and other out-of-pocket costs
Evidence that supports your claim
Strong evidence improves your chances of success. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything listed here. We can help you gather it.
Left it a while? If work aggravated an existing weakness and your employer failed to protect you, that can still form the basis of a claim. It is worth asking.
No Win No Fee osteoarthritis claims
You can start an osteoarthritis claim without paying anything upfront. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t pay our legal fees, subject to the terms of your agreement.
If your claim succeeds, an agreed percentage is deducted from your compensation. Your solicitor will explain this clearly before you commit to anything. You’ll see the full terms in writing before your claim begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before starting your claim.
Can I claim for osteoarthritis caused by work?
Often, yes. If years of heavy lifting, repetitive movement or unsafe working conditions caused or worsened your osteoarthritis, and your employer failed to protect you, you may be able to claim. The key question is whether they met their duty to keep you safe.
How much compensation can I get for osteoarthritis?
There is no set figure. It depends on which joint is affected, how serious it is, how much it limits you, and your financial losses. Your solicitor will explain what your claim may be worth once they understand your circumstances.
Can I claim against a former employer?
Often, yes. Claims can usually be made against a previous employer, as their insurance at the time normally covers it. This is common with conditions that take years to develop, and we can help trace the right insurer.
Do I have to leave my job to make a claim?
No. You can claim while still employed. A claim is made against your employer’s insurer, and the law protects you from being treated unfairly for making a genuine claim.
How long do I have to make a claim?
In most cases you have three years, usually from the date you were diagnosed or the date you first knew your osteoarthritis was linked to your work. Some exceptions apply, so it is worth checking early.
Is an osteoarthritis claim the same as claiming PIP?
No. PIP is a disability benefit from the government. A compensation claim is made against the employer or party responsible for causing your condition. They are separate, and you may be able to do both.
Check if you can make osteoarthritis compensation claims
Tell us what happened and we’ll review your details and get back to you. We’ll explain your options in plain English, with no obligation to go ahead.
- Free, no-obligation review
- No Win No Fee available
- SRA-regulated solicitors
Check if you can make a claim
Takes less than 60 seconds
Don't leave it too late to claim
Most osteoarthritis claims must be started within three years. The sooner you begin, the easier the evidence is to gather while it is still available.
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