JCC Finds Shoulder Trauma Major Contributing Cause of Septic Arthritis

In Charles v. Centurion Deliveries LLC, OJCC Case No. 25-002844MGK, the claimant injured his right shoulder while pulling a strap to close a delivery truck door. The employer/carrier accepted a shoulder strain or sprain but disputed that the workplace injury caused the septic arthritis that later required emergency hospitalization and multiple surgeries.

Judge Margret G. Kerr credited the claimant's independent medical examiner, who explained that trauma caused blood and fluid to collect in the shoulder and created an environment where bacteria could proliferate. The JCC found that opinion consistent with the immediate swelling, the medical records, and the timing of the infection, and rejected competing opinions that relied on diabetes or asserted preexisting shoulder conditions.

The JCC granted compensability of the septic arthritis, temporary total disability benefits from December 13, 2024 through February 17, 2025, and temporary partial disability benefits beginning February 18, 2025, with penalties, interest, fees, and costs. The order denied compensability of rotator cuff tendinitis, impingement, and bursitis, and denied the claims for pain medication and physical therapy.

Source: Compensation Order