There are millions of jobs that a person can have. From a professional athlete to a writer to a construction worker, every career path requires different skills from its workers. When you do the same thing every day, sometimes jobs can become monotonous. Depending on your role you could develop a repetitive stress injury.
Repetitive stress injuries are any type of pain or injury that is caused by doing the same motions over and over again. When movements are repeated continuously it can put strain on limbs and ligaments, causing pain. If you have developed an injury due to repetitive motions in your job you may be entitled to compensation. Speak with a Kane County workers’ compensation lawyer today to discuss the details of your situation.
How Do You Know If You Have a Repetitive Stress Injury?
Repetitive stress injuries can result from many different actions. You may be able to identify your injury by examining your symptoms. Reference the following list of symptoms that can be experienced as a result of a repetitive stress injury.
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Cramping
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Burning or pins and needles
- Aching
- Throbbing
If you are experiencing any of the above and believe it could be related to your occupation, seek medical help. While repetitive stress injuries are sometimes self-diagnosable it can be beneficial to have a professional opinion.
What Jobs Can Cause Repetitive Stress Injuries?
Any job that relies on repeated movements can cause a repetitive stress injury as time goes on. For example, a writer or journalist who types for extended periods each day may develop carpel tunnel syndrome and stiffness in their fingers and wrists from the motions. Many hairdressers and makeup artists struggle with the same pain.
Professional athletes are also prone to repetitive stress injuries from the movements and force that are required for their sport. Baseball players may tear their rotator cuff due to throwing the ball with excessive force and speed. They make the same motions regularly which can contribute to the deterioration of tendons and ligaments.
Tailors and sewers can develop issues because of the grip they must keep on small needles and threads. They can develop trigger finger, where the tendon of a finger is swollen and causes the finger to stiffen and click.
Can I Collect Compensation For a Repetitive Stress Injury?
You may be able to collect compensation for a work-related repetitive stress injury in a few ways. Workers’ compensation is insurance that employers must provide their employees as a way to receive compensation in the event that they sustain an injury on the job or due to their duties. It can provide cash benefits for medical treatment, time taken off work, disability, and more. In addition to workers’ compensation, some companies may have their own policies in place to provide employees with compensation options. You should familiarize yourself with both your workers’ compensation plan and your company’s policies to determine the best course of action for your situation. Work with a skilled attorney to ensure your employment rights are protected.
