Pennsylvania workers who suffer injury in the course of their work may be able to pursue workers’ compensation claims. While most reported injuries involve visible trauma, repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) often manifest gradually over time, making them less immediately noticeable compared to acute injuries.
Some of the common signs that you may be suffering from an RSI include the following:
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the affected area.
- Stiffness or soreness that worsens with activity.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or fingers.
- Weakness in the affected muscles.
- Difficulty performing tasks that require repetitive movements.
Repetitive strain injuries can worsen over time and it is important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any of these symptoms. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can help prevent further progression of the injury and facilitate a quicker recovery process.
How you can claim workers’ comp for an RSI
If you’ve suffered a repetitive strain injury (RSI) at work, you can follow these steps to claim workers’ compensation:
- Seek medical attention promptly to assess and address your injury.
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, following the company’s specific procedures for reporting workplace injuries.
- Provide details about how the injury occurred and the symptoms you are experiencing.
- Complete the necessary paperwork provided by your employer for the workers’ compensation claim process.
- Ensure that you accurately and thoroughly fill out all required documentation, including details about your injury, medical treatment and any time missed from work.
- Submit your workers’ compensation claim to your employer’s insurance provider or the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
- Keep copies of all documents for your records.
- Stay in communication with your employer and the workers’ compensation insurance company to track the progress of your claim.
- Provide any additional information or documentation requested promptly.
You may consider seeking legal guidance to help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the workers’ compensation claim process. An experienced workers’ compensation counsel can provide valuable guidance and representation, especially if you encounter challenges or if your claim is disputed by your employer or the insurance company.