Repetitive stress and overexertion injuries are two types of injuries that plague many workers and places of employment. Each of these injuries is likely eligible for worker’s compensation, but their gradual symptoms often can be hard to recognize until they’re extremely severe, causing a change in the ability to perform certain activities. Therefore, it is important for employees to recognize possible symptoms early and report them before they have the chance to get worse.

Repetitive Stress Injury

A repetitive strain injury (RSI), also known as a repetitive stress injury, is caused by the gradual damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves from repetitive motions. Unfortunately, repetitive strain injury is very common across all industries. After all, the injury can be caused by a number of different activities.

RSI Causes

1. Computer mouse use
2. Typing
3. Ringing up items as a cashier
4. Assembly line work
5. Sports training
6. Routine tool use

Common types of RSIs include carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, trigger finger, rotator cuff tendonitis, and tennis elbow. Repetitive strain injuries often affect wrists, hands, forearms, elbows, neck, and shoulders. While symptoms of RSIs generally start off gradually, they may eventually become severe, constant, and intense—eventually limiting your ability to do normal activities.

RSI Symptoms

1. Mild to severe pain
2. Swelling
3. Stiffness
4. Tingling
5. Throbbing
6. Temperature sensitivity

Overexertion

Meanwhile, overexertion occurs from working too hard to lift, push, pull, hold, or carry any item. This can easily occur in a warehouse or even the office. Overexertion is when you apply too much force to an activity, and you end up being injured, whether a strain or more serious injury. Overexertion injuries generally include injuries to the back, muscles, neck, joints, tendons, or connective tissues.

Overexertion Causes

1. Lifting a heavy object
2. Jumping from height
3. Pulling a heavy item
4. Carrying a heavy object
5. Stepping into a hole
6. Feeling tired
7. Contorting the body at an odd angle
8. Loading the muscles more than expected

Unsurprisingly, some industries have increased risk for overexertion injuries, such as construction or factory work. But overexertion injuries can occur in almost any work situation.

In the workplace, overexertion and RSIs are some of the main causes of workplace injuries. Individuals who work at a computer all day are constantly typing or clicking their mouse, and this is a form of overexertion and repetitive stress injury. In 2018, overexertion was noted as one of the leading causes of injuries in the workplace, representing more than one-fifth of all injuries.

If an employee begins to notice an RSI or overexertion symptom of pain or discomfort, it may be worth pursuing a medical evaluation. Most repetitive stress and overexertion injuries heal. A medical evaluation and report can help if the employee decides to file for worker’s compensation benefits.

Occupations at RSI or Overexertion Risk

1. Desk jobs
2. Bus drivers
3. Construction workers
4. Cleaners
5. Cooks
6. Musicians

In most cases, mild RSI and overexertion injuries can be treated with rest, ice, and elevation. However, in more severe cases, the treatment may be more involved such as steroid injections, physical therapy, or even extra support such as a splint or wrapping. Sometimes, workstations or tasks may need to be altered to modify your movements and minimize the strain on your body. Extreme cases may require surgery.

If you have experienced symptoms of repetitive strain or overexertion injuries, reach out to your doctor for an evaluation. You may be eligible for worker’s compensation. We can work alongside you to ensure that you receive your full worker’s compensation benefits. Email us today at office@carrilloinjurylaw.com.

Sources

https://viewpoint.libertymutualgroup.com/article/2018-workplace-safety-index/
https://www.healthline.com/health/repetitive-strain-injury