Hardworking professionals can develop injuries when something goes wrong at work. They can get hurt by machinery or tools. They may also end up hurt by their own work ethic and/or circumstances in some cases. Individuals who perform the same tasks repeatedly for many years may eventually develop repetitive strain injuries. These conditions can cause chronic, worsening pain. They may also cause functional limitations.
People may experience a gradual reduction in their range of motion and overall strength because of repetitive strain injuries. As the condition worsens, it may affect their productivity. Eventually, it may even affect their ability to perform the job safely. Workers may need to see a doctor and inform their employers about their diagnosis to avoid scenarios in which they become incapable of working.
What kinds of treatment may workers need to undergo after developing repetitive strain injuries?
Rest is a common requirement
Repetitive strain injuries develop through the persistent performance of the same tasks. Therefore, one of the most effective ways to treat repetitive strain injuries is to cease performing those tasks, at least temporarily. Workers may need to take time away from their jobs for several weeks to heal or at least improve their symptoms. They might require assistive technology if they remain on the job or could even ask their employers to move them to a different position that doesn’t involve the same job functions. Workers in such situations may need disability benefits to replace their lost wages. Disability benefits can also help cover the drop in income associated with moving to a less-demanding position.
Musculoskeletal rehabilitation
Particularly when repetitive strain injuries have developed beyond the earliest stages, workers may need more than just rest to heal. They may need to see rehabilitation specialists, including physical therapists and occupational therapists, to undergo treatment. They can perform exercises and receive manual therapy that can reduce pain. They can also learn techniques to prevent reinjury. Workers may need to undergo weeks or even months of rehabilitative care to reduce their symptoms and improve their job performance.
Surgical interventions
In the most extreme cases, workers may require surgery. Even conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome may eventually require surgical intervention if professionals don’t receive or respond to rehabilitative care. Thankfully, workers’ compensation benefits can help cover an employee’s treatment costs.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim can potentially help employees replace lost income and pay for medical treatment under such circumstances. Those with repetitive strain injuries may need help pursuing the benefits they require, and that’s okay.