A lot of workers in Ohio perform monotonous tasks as part of their job. It may seem innocent enough, but the truth of the matter is that this repetitive movement can lead to serious injuries that may knock you out of work for a significant period. This, in turn, can lead to financial hardship as you find yourself unable to earn a wage.
The good news is that those who suffer a repetitive stress injury may be able to recover workers’ compensation benefits to help with their medical care and offset their lost wages. In order to successfully claim those benefits, you’ll have to demonstrate that your condition was developed or exacerbated at work, which can be easier said than done. Let’s start, though, by looking at what a repetitive stress injury actually entails.
What is a repetitive stress injury?
A repetitive stress injury is a harm caused to the muscles, tendons or nerves by some sort of consistent use or repetitive movement. Just about any part of your body can be susceptible to a repetitive stress injury, but some of the most commonly damaged areas are the wrists, elbows, knees, shoulders, arms, and fingers. Remember, too, that the repetitive motion that causes these injuries can seem innocent enough, including something as minor as typing on a keyboard.
What conditions are caused by repetitive stress?
There are several medical conditions that can be caused by repetitive stress. Amongst them are:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Back sprain
- Tendinitis
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Herniated disks
- Nerve compression
This is just to name a few. There are a whole host of other medical issues that can arise from repetitive stress that can leave you in pain and with the need for time off of work and medical care.
When should you see the doctor?
If you exhibit any of the following symptoms, then you should talk to your medical provider as quickly as possible, ensuring that you receive any follow-up treatment that may be recommended:
- Pain
- A tingling sensation
- Numbness
- Swelling
- Weakness in an extremity
- Swelling in the affected area
After seeking medical treatment, you should try to avoid the repetitive activity that caused your injury. You’ll also need time to rest so that your body has the time it needs to heal.
What about workers’ compensation?
If you’ve been injured on the job or an existing medical condition has been exacerbated at work, then you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. However, you need to be prepared for your employer and its insurer to doubt your claim. Therefore, you should inform your employer of the injury as quickly as possible and make sure that you’re following all medical recommendations and providing that documentation to the insurance company.
You might also want to avoid conducting any activities at home that the insurance company may point to as the cause for your injury, and make sure that you’re acting in accordance with your injury so that the insurance company doesn’t argue that you’re exaggerating your condition.
Do you need a legal ally on your side?
Navigating the workers’ compensation process can be confusing and frustrating, especially when you’re focused on your recovery. But you don’t have to face this process alone. Instead, you can have a legal advocate take this burden off your shoulders so that you can rest assured that your claim is developed to be as strong as possible under the facts. That way you best position yourself for a successful recovery while giving yourself the time you need to heal.
If that kind of assistance sounds beneficial, then we encourage you to reach out to a legal team that you think is right for you to discuss the matter further.