If you work at a workplace which exposes you to certain types of repetitive motions, over time you may develop a chronic injury as a result of the repetitive motions. These injuries are becoming more and more prevalent in the work force. One explanation is that more and more people are working at their desks with a keyboard and mouse, which is a perfect recipe for a RSI like carpal tunnel.
A lot of people are unsure whether they can ask for workers’ compensation if that kind of injury happens to them, which suits the insurance companies just fine. But, don’t pass an opportunity to be rightfully compensated for an injury which was brought on by your job. Hire a good work compensation attorney. to help you navigate the somewhat complicated procedure and claim your money.
Types of RSIs
Even though the carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common and well-known RSI, it is by no means the only one. There are well over one hundred of these injuries and they can affect any body part. Here are just some of the most common ones caused by the repetitive workplace stress.
Trigger finger is a condition of, you guessed it, the finger. Essentially, when a finger is bent, it locks into that position quite painfully and it is difficult or impossible to straighten it.
Ulnar tunnel syndrome is a condition similar to carpal tunnel syndrome. Both come on as a result of pressure to the wrist which presses on the nerve. The key difference is the nerve in question. With UTS, it is the ulnar nerve, which is manifested as numbness or tingling in the little and ring fingers.
Writer’s Cramp or Dystonia is the cramping or spasming of the hand as a result of similar repetitive motions done previously. If the person is performing the repetitive task in the wrong way, the dystonia can be additionally worsened.
Rotator Cuff Injuries most commonly affect athletes, but can also be a result of a work-related strain on the shoulder. It starts with shoulder stiffness, but if not treated, it can escalate to complete immobility of the joint.
Most Common Causes of RSIs
As mentioned before, the repetition is what causes these injuries, but it is important to note that not every kind of repetitive activities lead to damage. Repetitive motion which is done in some unnatural and awkward position or through excessive exertion causes small amounts of damage each time, which accumulates over time.
Some of the most frequent activities which lead to RSIs are the use of power tools, maintaining an unnatural position for extended periods of time, and making forceful motions. The risk of these kinds of injuries drastically increases when workers are put on a tight schedule and need to work faster than it is generally considered safe.
What Do You Need for Workers’ Compensation
Generally, if you want to apply for workers’ compensation for this kind of injury, you may run into some problems. Since the injury is not acute, it is hard to pinpoint the exact time that the injury occurred, and therefore if the workplace conditions are the prime cause of the injury.
What you need to do is fairly simple; you still should visit your doctor and gather as much evidence about the injury. Don’t forget to tell your superior as soon as you start feeling the effects of the injury, because it may be useful if your claim is denied.
Workers’ compensation is something which is yours by right if you had to skip work or have some medical bills because of the unsafe workplace environment. If that right is denied to you, make sure to hire qualified legal counsel that will help you claim your right as easily and quickly as possible.
