Did you know that repetitive stress injuries account for around 60% of all work-related injuries? In fact, it is one of the most rapidly growing categories of workplace injuries. Many employees think that repetitive stress injuries are not covered by workers’ compensation because they aren’t caused by a single accident and they happen over a period of time. However, you may be surprised to discover that repetitive stress injuries are covered by workers’ comp. Contact one of our trusted workers’ comp attorneys to find out more about your claim.
What Are Repetitive Stress Injuries?
Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) are caused by performing the same task over and over again. Injuries occur when this repetitive motion damages soft tissues in certain parts of the body. Common causes of RSIs include:
- Working at an assembly line
- Typing at a computer
- Working at a supermarket checkout
- Standing or sitting in awkward or fixed positions for long periods of time
- Performing repetitive movements with no breaks
- Maintaining poor posture
Common Workplace Repetitive Stress Injuries
Tendonitis occurs when tendons are overused and become inflamed, stiff, and tender. Tendonitis can occur in any part of your body and can require medication, therapy, and splinting to treat.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common repetitive strain injuries in the workplace. It occurs when the nerves in your hand become compressed, leading to thumb weakness, aches in the hand or arm, and numbness. Surgery is usually required.
Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs in your joints become inflamed, leading to pain, tenderness, and decreased mobility.
Other
- Myofascial damage (swelling of overused muscles)
- Epicondylitis (“tennis elbow”)
- Cervical radiculopathy (compression of discs in the neck)
- Trigger finger
Symptoms of Repetitive Stress Injuries
The most commonly affected areas are the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders and back. Symptoms include:
- Pain
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Swelling and redness
- Weakness
Contact a Massachusetts Workers’ Comp Attorney
If you’ve developed a repetitive stress injury due to work-related activities, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation. You could receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. Our attorneys at Powers & Caccavale are experienced in dealing with all kinds of repetitive strain injuries and know how to get the maximum possible compensation. Contact us today by filling out our free case evaluation or by calling us at (617) 379-0016.