How do I file for workers' compensation if I have a repetitive stress injury?
According to the Bureau of
Labor Statistics, repetitive
stress injuries
(R.S.I.s), such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis, account for almost
one-third of workplace accidents and illnesses.
If you repeatedly hurt
yourself at work from doing the same thing, you'll want to know how to file a
workers' compensation claim. Even though the steps may differ from state to
state, you can do some general things to ensure you do what you need to do to
protect your rights and interests.
First, it's essential to
know what a repetitive stress injury is. These injuries are caused by actions
or tasks done repeatedly and put stress on the body most of the time.
Some common examples of
injuries caused by repetitive stress are:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (C.T.S.)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (C.T.S.) is a medical condition when your
hands and wrists get used repeatedly. It is one of the most common injuries at
work, and if it isn't taken care of properly, it can cause long-term
disability.
Pain, numbness, tingling,
and weakness in the hands and wrists are signs of C.T.S. It might be hard to do
everyday things like write, type, or use a computer mouse with these symptoms.
Tendinitis
It's an inflammation of
the tendons that connect muscles to bones. Repetitive work motions or
vibrations might induce tendinitis. Tendinitis can make the area of injury hurt and stiff, and it can be hard
to move the joint.
Bursitis
Bursitis is an
inflammation of one or more bursae, which cushion and lubricate joints.
Shoulder bursitis is the most frequent occupational injury, followed by hip,
elbow, and knee. Repeated movements or damage to the joint often causes
bursitis.
You may have bursitis if
you do the same things repeatedly at work. Everyday things like typing on a
keyboard, using a mouse, or hammering nails can cause bursitis.
Epicondylitis
Overusing the muscles and
tendons related to the bony bumps outside the elbow causes epicondylitis,
popularly known as "tennis elbow." It's a common condition that can strike
anyone of any age or activity level.
Work-related epicondylitis
is caused by activities like typing, using a computer mouse, or gripping things
that require the hands and wrists to get used repeatedly. People who work in
jobs that require gripping solid and pinching, like construction workers,
plumbers, etc., are more likely to get this condition.
De Quervain's disease
The tendons on the side of
the thumb, near the wrist, are affected by De Quervain's illness. It happens when these tendons get inflamed, which can cause
pain and make it hard to use the thumb.
De Quervain's disease is a
common issue for people whom type a lot or grip things with their thumb. It can
also come from doing the same thing repeatedly, like using a screwdriver or
paint.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
T.O.S. is a series of
diseases that occur when nerves and blood vessels between your neck and
shoulder become crushed, irritated, or inflamed.
Doing the same thing
repeatedly at work, like typing or using a computer mouse, often causes T.O.S.
Arm and hand pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and swelling are possible
signs. If you notice any of these signs, you should see a doctor. You can treat
T.O.S. with drugs, surgery, or physical therapy.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
When the tibial nerve goes
through the tarsal tunnel, it gets pinched. It causes tarsal tunnel syndrome. People who work in jobs that require them to stand for lengthy
periods are more likely to develop Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Pain, burning,
tingling, or numbness may be experienced in the foot and ankle when tarsal
tunnel syndrome occurs.
If you or someone you care
about has gotten hurt at work and wants to file a claim or have some questions,
click here.
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