Some workplace injuries are fairly straightforward. Say that a worker slips and falls from a roof on a construction site. They suffer a spinal cord injury when they strike the ground, and they are rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment.
Because this is a one-time event, it is clear that they were hurt on the job, and they can seek workers’ comp benefits. They may need to submit medical records and other such documentation, but there are not very many questions about when, where or how that injury took place.
Repetitive strain injuries, however, can be a bit more complicated. Because they happen over time, through the repetition of a certain movement, the injury does not happen in one day. This makes it important to secure the proper medical records and documentation to show that the injury is in fact connected to the person’s employment and that they deserve workers’ comp benefits.
Examples of repetitive strain injuries
There are many different types of repetitive strain injuries, with one of the most common being what’s often called “tennis elbow.” This is common in manual labor workers, as swinging and bending the arm repeatedly – such as when a construction worker swings a hammer – can cause inflammation in the joint.
But it is not just manual labor. A worker who sits at a desk and types all day could experience back pain from a workstation that is not ergonomically designed. They could also experience carpal tunnel syndrome from the repetition of typing on their keyboard.
Seeking appropriate benefits
If you are suffering from a repetitive strain injury, you know that it can be a life-changing ailment. Be sure you are aware of your rights to seek appropriate workers’ comp benefits.