Some workers’ compensation claims are simple. A worker gets hurt due to a machinery malfunction or a co-worker’s mistake. There is an obvious incident on the job with witnesses. There is an internal accident report affirming what happened. Workers hurt in such scenarios have a straightforward claim ahead if they seek workers’ compensation benefits.
The process can be more difficult in other situations. Workers in almost any profession can develop repetitive strain injuries. These medical conditions develop because people use their bodies repeatedly to perform the same functions. Factory workers, office workers, line cooks and health care professionals are all at risk of repetitive strain injuries caused by their job responsibilities.
Workers with repetitive strain injuries may need help proving that their employment is what caused their condition.
More testing may be necessary
A worker diagnosed by their doctor at a routine check-up with a repetitive strain injury may know it started at work. Typically, it is beneficial to communicate that suspicion to the physician during the appointment.
A doctor aware that a job triggers or worsens repetitive strain injuries can recommend functional limitations. The worker can then take their doctor’s note to their employer to ask for support. They can also begin the process of applying for workers’ compensation benefits.
If the employer questions whether their injuries came from work or other activities, a thorough medical evaluation may be necessary. Testing can help establish that job functions contributed to a repetitive strain injury. Such testing can strengthen a worker’s claim for benefits.
Employees with repetitive strain injuries may need time off from work to recover. They may also require a variety of treatments ranging from surgery to physical therapy. Workers’ compensation benefits can pay for necessary care and can provide disability benefits.
Those benefits can be quite important if a repetitive strain injury forces a worker to leave a lucrative role because they can no longer perform certain key job functions. Partial disability benefits can be valuable for those with long-lasting symptoms.
Gathering medical evidence that a repetitive strain injury started at work can help an employee secure workers’ compensation benefits. Seeking legal guidance can help those facing complex claims learn about their rights and negotiating for the benefits they deserve.