Work injuries come in all different shapes and sizes. When you picture an injury in the workplace, you probably envision a quick, one-off accident that causes a worker to slip, fall, hit their head, or the like.
However, not all injuries related to work happen so instantaneously. Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) are injuries that occur from repetitive motions, such as those involved with work duties. Each case is different from the next, but many of these conditions take months or years to fully develop.
Here are a few common types of RSIs in the workplace:
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This occurs when the nerves of the wrist are compressed and swell, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands and thumbs.
2. Bursitis. This condition occurs when the bursae in the joints become inflamed from frequent repetitive motions, causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knees, shoulders, elbows, or hips.
3. Rotator Cuff Tendonitis. This condition occurs when the tendons and muscles of the shoulder joint become inflamed and swollen from overuse.
4. Tennis Elbow. This painful condition is an irritation of the tissue connecting the forearm muscle to the elbow.
5. Back Strain. Stressful, repetitive motions can cause the back muscles to tighten or tear overtime.
RISK FACTORS AND CAUSES
There are several risk factors that can potentially lead to repetitive stress injuries over time, including:
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Stressing the same muscles through repetitive movements
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Previous injuries in the same area
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Maintaining the same posture for extended periods of time
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Maintaining improper posture
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Improper lifting or lifting heavy objects
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Being in poor physical condition
Even if you have only mild discomfort while performing a certain task, it’s recommended that you see your doctor so that you can identify the cause and ask your employer about ergonomic work.
If you experienced a repetitive stress injury because of your work duties, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in order to make up for lost wages as well as receive any necessary medical treatment. The legal team at Justice Injury Law is standing by to review your case for free and help you obtain the benefits you deserve.
Contact our Louisville workers’ comp attorneys at 502-584-5455 to learn more about your legal options!