Workers compensation may cover repetitive strain injuries

On Behalf of | Feb 5, 2020 | Workers' Compensation

Straining bones, tendons or muscles repeatedly over time can result in a repetitive motion injury. If you suffer from this condition, you may qualify for workers’ compensation if it occurs as a result of completing tasks required by your job.

According to Medical News Today, repetitive stress injuries are also called cumulative trauma disorders, occupational overuse syndrome and regional musculoskeletal disorder. This condition is well-documented, and it affects individuals who use modern technology, such as smartphones, computers and tablets, office workers and manual laborers.

RSI can affect virtually any part of the body that moves or rotates.  Activities that increase the risk of this condition include the following:

  • Carrying heavy loads
  • Fatigue
  • Poor posture or a poorly designed workspace
  • Vibrating equipment
  • Overuse of a specific group of muscles
  • Working in cold temperatures

There are two types of RSI. If you have inflammation or swelling in specific muscles or tendons, you may have the musculoskeletal disorder. The second type often relates to nerve damage as a result of work activities. Depending on your exact symptoms, your doctor may write a prescription, recommend physical therapy or hot or cold compresses. Physicians often reserve steroid injections and surgery for advanced cases.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, Raynaud’s disease and rotator cuff syndrome are among the conditions associated with RSI. If you cannot complete the duties required for your job due to occupational overuse syndrome, you may qualify for workers’ compensation. Not only can it help cover medical expenses, but it may also help pay for physical therapy and assistive devices. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.

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