Repetitive use injuries are compensable

Repetitive use injuries are gradual damage to muscles, tendons and nerves from repeated motion. These types of repetitive use injuries can occur in any person who repeats the same motion over and over.

Repetitive use injuries that occur in the workplace are compensable, meaning you can obtain compensation for the loss or hardship caused by the injury.

Common repetitive use injuries

Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons that connect muscle to bone. It is commonly found in biceps, elbows and rotator cuffs. Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa sac found where friction occurs in the body, meant to cushion the area between the tendon and bone. It is commonly found in knees, elbows and hips.

Signs of repetitive use injuries

As repetitive use injuries are not the result of a sudden impact or occurrence, there are signs and symptoms to look out for. You may experience burning, aching and shooting pain in the injured area. The injury may present as numbness or tremors. Weakness or lack of strength in your extremities or extreme fatigue can make it difficult to function without assistance. These injuries are debilitating when they prevent you from the tasks of daily living.

Obtain compensation for repetitive use injuries

Injured workers can obtain compensation for their workplace injuries through either a personal injury lawsuit or a workers’ compensation. Most workers use the avenue of workers’ compensation. These benefits include lost income and repayment of medical expenses. Injured workers should report injuries to their employers, seek medical attention and file a workers’ compensation claim.

Repetitive use injuries can happen to workers in any industry. They are equally common in athletes, medical professionals and blue-collar workers. Even jobs in office settings can lead to repetitive use injuries of the hand from excessive computer use.