A certain amount of physical discomfort is natural when you work a physically demanding job. Whether you provide custodial and maintenance services for a local business or you work on the line at an industrial facility, your feet, arms and back may be sore by the end of a shift. You can’t ask for time off just because you’re tired at most companies.
However, there is a notable difference between general soreness due to tiredness and the pain that results from an injury. When the discomfort you experience on the job increases from exertion-related discomfort to actual pain, trying to continue working could be a mistake that has long-term career implications.
While it may be inconvenient to do so, reporting the pain you have to your supervisor and seeking a medical evaluation can help you protect your income and your career.
Pain in frequently used body parts may be a sign of repetitive motion injuries
When you lift, grip or twist in the same way on the job day after day, the parts of your body that must perform these repetitive tasks suffer wear and tear, much like a vehicle does when you drive it every day to and from your job.
The parts of the human body aren’t made to endlessly perform the same repetitive tasks. Lifting a component from one line at the factory and turning to put it on another line every 90 seconds could cause damage to your arms, your hips or your back.
The more frequently you use certain body parts as part of your job, the more concerning repetitive strain to these body parts may become. Those mild pain you experience will only increase in time if it is the result of a repetitive motion injury. Rest and treatment are necessary to prevent the injury from worsening and to help you continue performing your job.
Workers can receive compensation for repetitive motion injuries
Not every workers’ compensation claim stems from an accident on the job that leaves someone with dramatic injuries. Many people develop cumulative injuries after years of performing the same work.
Utilizing workers’ compensation so that you get medical care and time off to recover can help you get back to working condition sooner. The right help can make a workers’ compensation claim or an appeal of denied benefits easier for you.