Workers compensation Scheduled Loss of

Use for Knee and Tibia

If you were injured at work and are curious about the “Scheduled Loss of Use” (SLU) on your knee and shin bone, look no further! If you fit the Workers’ Compensation Board’s criteria, you could receive a compensation payment.

Our report will state that because of your work-related accident, you have lost function in the injured body part, which will last a lifetime. In our report, we follow the Workers’ Compensation Guidelines for Determining Impairment.

Objectives for Determining Knee and Tibia Impairment

The knee supports the body’s weight and enables knee flexion and extension, which allow the body to be lowered to the ground and lifted, respectively. Walking is made possible by knee mobility, which also allows the body to rotate.

The objective is to precisely determine the long-term physical deficit that the patient experienced as a result of their accident. The assessment should, to the greatest extent feasible, be based on factual information gleaned from the history and physical examination, as well as any relevant diagnostic test results.

Techniques for Measuring Permanent Impairment

At the point of greatest medical improvement, when further healing is not anticipated, the degree of a permanent residual physical deficit should be assessed. Based on the results of the clinical course of treatment, the medical provider’s experience, and any additional treatment alternatives accessible to the patient, the maximum medical improvement should be assessed.

Where appropriate, the contralateral extremity and expected/normal values should be taken into account by the medical professional when determining the degree of permanent residual physical deficit. The interval between an injury and the point of greatest medical progress can vary, although in most situations it is one year after the injury or the most recent surgery.

The mechanism of the damage has very little effect on how severe the permanent residual physical deficit is. In addition to physical injury to bone, muscles, cartilage, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and other tissues, it can also reflect the permanent residual physical deficit at the point of maximum medical improvement.

A lot of things are taken into consideration when measuring permanent impairment and as such it should be handled by experienced doctors authorized by the workers compensation board. Since the human knee is made up of numerous distinct bones, cartilages, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, there are numerous knee elements that you could hurt in a workplace accident.

Any kind of knee injury can render you incapable of moving and be excruciatingly painful. Your ability to move may be significantly impacted by even a small knee injury involving ligaments and tendons, but a serious knee injury may result in lifelong impairment.

Knee Range of Motion
Knee flexion

Flexion is measured by fully extending your knee forward while you are seated. We bring the heel of the foot as far back toward the chair as we determine the angle generated by the axis of the femur and the fibula. 0 degrees of extension to 140 degrees make up the full range of motion (complete flexion). It is represented in the table below

Knee Flexion

Knee extension

An extension deficit is the angle of loss from zero while the patient is standing with their knee completely extended. The phenomenon is expressed in the table below

Knee Extension

Calculating loss of use

Determine whether any special circumstances need to be taken into account before calculating the overall schedule loss of knee function. If not, take into account flexion (A) or extension (B) deficits according to the chart below, as appropriate. The schedule cannot exceed the value for ankylosis when evaluating based on range of motion.

Knee
Percent Loss of Use of Knee
Instructions: To the extent there are deficits select one from the table below.
Maximum value cannot exceed the value for ankylosis (70%).
Schedule loss of use percentages for ranges of motion values above/below those
depicted here should be adjusted proportionally

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.5 Special considerations we use

Special considerations with enumerated schedule loss of use values include the following. When indicated or when no schedule value is given, other deficits may be introduced. However, the value of ankylosis cannot surpass the maximum schedule loss of use value.

  1. Patella: Total excision results in a 15% loss of leg function; partial excision results in a 7½–0% loss of function. Include for muscular atrophy and mobility deficits
  2. A patella fracture with internal fixation results in a 71/2 to 10% loss of leg function.
  3. Depending on the severity of the residual damage, recurrent patellar dislocation with or without surgery results in a 10-15% loss of leg function.
  4. Depending on the degree of mobility impairments and muscle atrophy present, chondromalacia patella, ranging from moderate to significant, results in a 7½ – 10% loss of function of the leg.
  5. Prepatellar or infrapatellar bursitis results in a 0 – 7½ % loss of leg function.
  6. A quadriceps tendon and patella ligament rupture results in a 10 to 15% loss of leg function.
  7. 10 – 15% of a leg’s function is lost in a tibial plateau fracture.
  8. Depending on the degree of residual disability, osteochondritis desiccants, with or without surgery, results in 7½ – 10% a loss of use of the leg.
  9. Knee instability cannot be scheduled unless it is treated surgically. If surgery is unsuccessful and there is continued instability that necessitates the use of a brace, consider categorization. Loss of use of the leg is scheduled for ligament laxity (anteroposterior or lateral medial).
  10. Take classification into account when an amputee’s non-functional prosthesis has lingering symptoms and problems such neuromas, phantom pain, and chronic ulcers.
  11. Repeated locking of the knee may not be schedule-compatible and should be classified.
  12. A healed tibial shaft fracture with no alignment issues results in a 0–10% loss of leg function.
  13. Complete or partial knee replacement or arthroplasty: The goal is to restore joint function. Results are evaluated at least a year following surgery because clinically meaningful changes in functioning can happen earlier. The schedule is determined by:
  • Range of motion (ROM) as evaluated by flexion and extension (using the measurement that corresponds to the level of impairment);
  • Position:
    • alignment (Varus or valgus deformity),
    • stability (medial/lateral [ML] laxity),
    • anteroposterior (AP) motion,
    • or leg length (LL)
    • Atrophy (measured at mid-thigh relative to the contralateral side); and
    • Presence of chronic problems (unless classification is appropriate).

The chart below is used to calculate the schedule loss of usage values. A 35% schedule loss of use is a good result (as shown in Row A below). Add the value for the additional deficit (using the number that most closely fits the deficit in each column) to the base of 35 % to determine the total schedule loss of use award where deficits are greater than those described in Row A.

Full or Partial Knee Replacement Schedule Loss of Use

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Example:

An individual undergoes surgery to replace their knee. The medical professional discovered a bad outcome with very little flexion (limited to 300) and a 150 malalignment at the point of maximum medical improvement.

  • The replacement’s value would begin at 35%.
  • Increase by 30% if your flexion deficit is severe (300).
  • Increase by 5% for misalignment (15 degrees).

This person would have a % SLU value overall.

Amputated Leg

Amputation at the knee joint results in a 100% loss of leg function; six inches below the knee results in a 95% loss of function; and mid-calf results in a 90% loss of function. An amputee who has obtained a 100% loss of limb use may be eligible for an additional schedule award in the event of a future injury.

Amputation can really cause severe damage to the patient’s earning capacity. It can be a life distorting situation both physically and mentally. Proper assessment should be done in order to grant the patient appropriate award for schedule loss.

Please refer to the Workers Compensation Board website of your state or speak with your Workers Compensation attorney for more information.

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5.0
Based on 107 reviews
Dr. Nakul Karkare is awesome! And patriotic! Thank you, Dr. Karkare for displaying the American Flag in your waiting room, honoring and mourning our military personnel, this Memorial Day, who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Dave
00:52 30 May 23
Excellent and skilled orthopedic practice specializing in joint replacements. Dr Karkare was trained at the Hospital for Special Surgery and has excellent results, as do his associates!! Would gladly refer family members to the practice!!
Eclectic54
00:24 30 May 23
I had such a wonderful experience with Complete Orthopedics in Stony Brook. Not only did Dr. Kuo fix my broken wrist with such kindness and care, but the office staff, including Billing, Reception and the X-Ray Technician, was always so helpful, going out of their way to ensure that each patient felt welcome, answering any questions with a smile, and ensuring any issues with insurance/billing were handled with the utmost professionalism. I highly recommend their practice!
Victoria DeMatteo
19:49 10 May 23
I'm very happy St. Catherine's sent me to this office for treatment after I broke my collar bone! Unfortunately the break was too severe to repair on its own and I had to have it rebuilt a week after the injury. Dr. Vaksha did a great job fixing it. I'm three months out, and I have full use of the arm and shoulder. The whole office staff is very professional, accommodating, and welcoming. I hope to not need orthopedic services again, but Dr. Vaksha will be my number one choice if I or anyone in family suffers such am injury.
Tina Rivera
20:42 08 May 23
No one likes going to the doctor. But these people make it painless. I go for knees, hips and shoulders. At almost 70 Complete Orthopedics keeps my active life style running smoothly. Whether chasing my Grandson and even surfing again, I highly recommend them!!
Thomas Slavin
15:02 02 Mar 23
Dr. Kuo knowledgeable and competent surgeon- very good experience and more importantly great result.
Joseph McCoy
21:23 25 Feb 23
Dr Vaksha was so kind and helpful. He took extra time with us and explained things so thoroughly. Highly recommend. Office very clean.
Susan Bosinius
20:20 19 Feb 23
Dr Vaksha, is a great doctor very professional knows what he talking about. Treat patient with upmost respect. Thank You
Troy Spencer
16:46 19 Jan 23
Dr. Karkare is an amazing doctor, very caring and attentive, the girl at the front desk is very kind and helpful. .elizabeth .thank you so much .
blanca ventura
21:32 26 Oct 22
Been going to this place before my accident and after I had my knee surgery. So happy how I been treated and how well I am getting. Thank you all and specially Dr. VAKSHA for everything and getting back on track.
Ita Opico
19:01 25 Oct 22
Love this place From the minute I called I was treated kindly. When I arrived The Dr saw me right away he was compassionate and ordered the appropriate tests for me. I came back in for my follow up and had the same great experience.
Christine Rostock
21:28 23 May 22
Dr Vaksha and Dr karkare are 2 of the best orthopedic doctors around my wife Susan had a very serious broken ankle in March of 2019 she didn't think she was going to walk again Dr vaksha did an excellent surgery on her ankle he said it was his toughest he ever did he put a lot of hardware in her ankle and told her she would be alright she made remarkable recovery thanks to his surgery as of now she regained 100 percent use of her ankle she would highly recommend him to anyone. My own experience with Dr karkare has been wonderful he takes his time with you listens to what you have to say and prescribes various treatments and is very caring I would highly recommend him to anyone I would give both doctors a 10 plus rating we are very happy with them the best.
Harry Jones
23:31 19 May 22
Complete orthopedics is a wonderful place to go when you hurt or injured a great staff and wonderful doctors very knowledgeable and helpful I would recommend this place to all of my family and friends that is in me of orthopedic care I give them 10 thumbs up
Wayne Pemberton
17:39 18 May 22
The staff is very professional and helpful. Dr. Vaksha is excellent. He takes time to listen and offer suggestions to help you get better. I’m very thankful and happy to be a patient here at Complete Orthopedics.
Phoenix Rising
19:54 16 May 22
Dr.Karkare is the best. He listens to everything and explains everything I recommend him to everyone. I am so happy he is my doctor.
Myrna James
00:48 13 May 22
Dr.Kuo is amazing very attentive,caring,and passionate and staff is awsome too.Thank you for everything Dr.kuo.
Erick Murillo
23:17 12 May 22
I was in a car accident November 1 I was referred to Dr. Vaksha For shoulder surgery . I he was amazing he made me feel very comfortable and explained everything that was going to happen from surgery all the way through my physical therapy highly recommend Dr. Vaksha
Yolanda Ojeda
19:37 09 May 22
My appointment with Dr. Vaksha was amazing. Dr. Vaksha was very thorough and kind. I would refer this office to anyone who needs a great orthopedic doctor.
John Senechal
19:54 05 May 22
Scheduling my appointment was quick and easy. The staff was super friendly and down to earth. I was seen on time. The appropriate test, “x-rays” were taken before the conversation with doctor, something I really liked, test for analysis and conversation was done upfront. Dr. V had a great personality and was no BS, straight forward diagnosis and a play on next steps. I am happy I found them and would refer them to friends and family.
Sam
00:46 03 May 22
I have seen Dr. Kuo two times already and he's awesome along with his staff. Very friendly office and I'm glad to be a patient here.
Camaris A
20:01 28 Apr 22
Amazing team!! Very caring, profesional, and friendly!! Dr. Kevin Kuo, you are the best, very passionate, caring, and helping thank you for getting me better and being so kind to me! Elizabeth you the best thank you for you help always and you big smile and positive actitud❤️🙏🏼
breidy valerio
19:01 22 Apr 22
The staff is truly exceptional, they make you feel comfortable and welcomed. The doctors are amazing,always professional, compassionate and great listeners.
Elizabeth Collado
03:25 09 Apr 22
What a great place! The place is clean and organized.The staff is wonderful. Setting up physical therapy is right there as well.I'm so glad I found this place.
Donna Anne
22:45 05 Apr 22
This was my 1st time breaking something in my 27 years on this planet. I was recommended here by a friend Dr. Vashka helped me from day 1 and still continues to check in on me and my healing ankle. Would highly recommend
tyron davis
16:06 01 Apr 22
Brand new office, same great doctors! Rooms are clean, plenty of parking, physical therapy attached, Dr. Karkare and his staff are awesome. Thank you!
Emily B
02:49 24 Mar 22
Dr.VAksha is the best, I love the way he treats me as his patient, he is caring,understanding and very attentive to my needs
Mirna Caballero
14:53 03 Mar 22
Great staff. Dr. Vaksha is awesome and takes the time to listen to his patients. He is very compassionate. I would highly recommend this office.
Bebe Doyle
01:24 23 Feb 22
After suffering from a severe ankle injury Dr. V was able to help me heal and return back to work completely to a job where I stand for 12 hours a day. The office is very clean and I appreciated the reminders of my appointments via phone call and through text. The patient portal made it easy for me to access all my documents including work notes. The office staff is wonderful and Rebecca was able to schedule me with a busy schedule and awesome at answering all of my questions including referring me to a great physical therapy office. I highly recommend this office to anyone who’s looking for knowledgeable and kind orthopedic office.
Elizabeth Birchwell
21:31 28 Jan 21
The staff here are great, I was seen at the time of my appointment and was well taken care of!
Shaun Berry
18:14 07 Jan 21
They are an excellent practice. The front and back office people are amazing and so helpful. Rebecca is such a kind and understanding person. I had an issue with paperwork and she cleared it right up. Dr. Karkare is very knowledgeable, helpful, and caring.
Matt S.
19:31 18 Nov 20
Rebecca K. - What a true burst of sunshine. Very friendly and definitely an asset to the practice!
Laura Aston
18:17 17 Nov 20
Great experience, the Doctor is nice but the staff is incredible. I worked with Linda, who was profession and assisted me beyond what any person has done at other practices. Complete Ortho should be complimented for having such a person on their staff.I highly recommend this place!!!
Joe Allen
17:26 17 Nov 20
Linda and Becca they are so good ever time I come they are very nice I would tell everyone I no to come to this office..
Barbara Victor
16:45 17 Nov 20
I was rear ended in an auto accident , Dr Vashka was recommended by a friend of mine .I was experiencing Back , neck , and shoulder pain . After a thorough examination and given exercises to do at home , I am feeling much better , and I ended up avoiding surgery . The staff at Complete Ortho is extremely attentive and show great care when making an appointment and are very friendly and i never waited more than 5 minutes for my appointment . So I would strongly recommend Complete Orthopedics for any aches and pains that one might be experiencing.....
Bill Becht
04:44 17 Nov 20
It was the afternoon of Friday Sept. 24. We were in Pt. Jefferson and my wife, Mary Ann, broke her hip. We went to Mather Hospital and it was determined that she would have to have an operation to have it repaired. This would be her third time under the knife in the past year. It just so happened that we were very fortunate enough to have Dr. Karkare, who was on standby, perform the surgery. He put in a rod and two screws in her hip. She spent a few days in the hospital and then went to Gurwin rehabilitee for another few weeks.It has now been almost six weeks and we both worked the election the other day. If it wasn’t for Dr. Karkare’s expertise she never would have been able to work. She is able to walk with a walker and is doing physical therapy three times a week.We can not thank the doctor enough for the compassion and dedication that he puts into his work. It allows Mary Ann do the things that she likes to do, even on a limited basis for a while. I know that with her will, perseverance and the great work that the surgeon performed she will be back on her feet in no time.Sincerely:John V. PlumpEast Northport, NY 11731
Jack Harris
14:36 06 Nov 20
In the year of 2018 I was referred to Dr. Karkare because I was experiencing severe knee joint pain. After exhausting physical therapy and trying to labor through the pain, I had to make a quality of life decision. Total knee replacement was the only viable option. Dr. Karkare made my decision easy as he walked me through the whole process from surgery to recovery.On 12/13/19 ( Friday the 13th) I enter Lenox Hill Hospital in great hands. From the time I entered Dr. Karkare’s office for the first time until now, his staff has been amazing. Andrea the medical coordinator walked me through all the paper work and necessary preparations for the surgery. Courtesy and kind would be an understatement. Dr. Karkare went over and beyond from the wellness checks and phone calls all to assure me that I was important to him. This was the right decision no pain and no limp. Complete Orthopedics should be your choice!
Kenneth Randolph
22:18 25 Sep 20
Dr. Vadshka has a great bedside manner. He really takes his time and explains treatment options.
T Lee
12:33 09 Sep 20
I suffered with pain in both knees for years. My orthopedic doctor kept recommending knee replacement . I fought it for years, as I was just afraid. When I had no choice and could barely walk , it was recommended I see Dr. Karkare. We set up a consultation and my wife and I left his office feeling totally confident and comfortable with moving ahead with the surgery. He explained everything to us, and the office staff set everything up for us and made the process easy. So about one month after our initial meeting I had the first knee done. I was up walking mere hours after the surgery, and on the workout machines the next morning. I went home two days after the surgery, and yes walked my daughter down the aisle at her wedding only one week after the surgery without even a cane! Three months later I had the other knee done and went home the very next day. Dr. Karkare put my fears to rest . I would highly recommend him. His expertise gave me my life back. Thank you Dr. Karkare.SincerelyVito Congro
Ethel Congo
23:58 12 Aug 20
Dr Rhodin really cares for his patients. When I see him he makes sure to review my progress in detail.
Micki Cahill
15:03 08 Feb 20
My mom had a total hip replacement by dr karkare. He is the BEST orthopedic doctor.Her incision is almost invisable.She is going back for her other hip next week. The office staff is the best, love Andrea.You wont find a better doctor.
Ryan Brigandi
21:06 13 Jul 18
There is no better Orthopedic doctor you will find. Broke my ankle three places on a Saturday. Called Dr. Karkare. He had is team ready at the hospital and operated on me within 6 hours after my injury. Now After 3 months of great care by him and his staff, I am walking to normalcy.
Spacecom Tel
04:13 23 Mar 18
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