Repetitive Stress Work Injuries
Injuries caused by repetitive motions and movements in the workplace are extremely common, and often, they can be very debilitating for workers. Have you suffered repetitive stress work injuries in the workplace? A Massachusetts workers’ compensation lawyer can help you fight for the benefits you rightfully deserve.
Repetitive stress work injuries – like carpal tunnel syndrome – are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, these injuries account for about one-third of all workers’ comp claims in Massachusetts.
Repetitive stress injuries are caused by repeat and excessive movements, postures and motions that cause musculoskeletal strain and injury. These injuries develop over months or years, and they often result in severe, recurring pain for individuals.
Are you suffering from a repetitive stress injury sustained in the workplace? Workers’ compensation benefits may be available to you.
You need the help of a qualified Massachusetts workers’ compensation lawyer. In Massachusetts, repetitive stress cases are often complex, and employers and their insurers fight aggressively to deny individuals’ claims. If you’re suffering from a repetitive strain injury, our legal team can help. We will fight for any and all workers’ comp benefits that you rightfully deserve.
Call now for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options: 978-216-1152
What Causes Repetitive Stress Work Injuries?
Today’s workplaces move more quickly than ever before, and employees are often asked to push their bodies to the limits. Workers are being asked to sit or stand for long periods of time and conduct stressful tasks more regularly. Over time, these repetitive and excessive motions wreak havoc on the body, leading to inflammation and chronic pain.
Several worker populations are affected more commonly by this type of injury. You may be at a higher risk for developing a repetitive stress work injury if:
- You spend long hours on a computer – Sitting at a computer might seem safe. Yet, the repetition of sitting and typing at a keyboard is the leading cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. Computer jobs can also cause neck and shoulder pain and vision impairments.
- You work in construction – Construction workers are often called upon to complete repetitive tasks. Vibrating tools like jackhammers, for example, cause musculoskeletal trauma after long-term and repeated use. Additionally, heavy lifting and repetitive motions (like swinging a hammer) can also cause repetitive stress injuries.
- You stand or sit for long hours – Excessive standing or sitting can cause severe damage to the body. If you spend most of the workday on your feet or sitting at a desk, you may be at risk for developing a repetitive stress condition.
- You work in commercial painting – Commercial painters often have to crank their necks and use their shoulders while working. This industry is at a higher risk for neck, shoulder and other musculoskeletal conditions caused by repetitive strain.
- You’re required to carry heavy loads – Heavy lifting often causes lower back, hamstring and shoulder injuries. Movers, porters and construction professionals are at the highest risk for developing repetitive strain injuries due to lifting.
Examples Of Common Repetitive Stress Work Injuries
The OHSA recognizes more than 100 repetitive stress work injuries. These injuries range from progressive musculoskeletal conditions – like carpal tunnel syndrome – to chronic pain and inflammatory diseases. The most common repetitive stress injuries include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tennis elbow, or epicondylitis
- Tendonitis
- Trigger finger
- Compressed nerves
- Chronic neck or lower back pain
- Shoulder injuries
Ultimately, no matter your type of injury, if it was caused by repetitive or excessive motions, you may be entitled to compensation.
Workers’ Compensation for Repetitive Stress Work Injuries
In Massachusetts, workers’ compensation benefits are available for workers who sustain job-related injuries. These benefits help workers pay for related medical costs, as well as to offset lost wages from time away from work.
Additionally, these benefits can compensate workers for non-financial costs related to their injuries, including pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Your benefits can help to cover:
- Medical bills and medical equipment
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Lost wages, loss of future earnings
- Future medical care
- Pain and suffering
Weekly wages. Workers can apply for immediate wage assistance. This provides individuals with a percentage of their weekly wages – typically about two-thirds of their average weekly wage – while they are away from work. These benefits can be claimed after the first full week away from work.
Should I Hire A Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
The Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Act provides employees with benefits for any injury sustained while on the job. These laws were designed to provide workers with reliable financial assistance for workplace-related injuries.
Yet, workers’ compensation claims must be approved by the employer’s insurance company. Insurance companies often fight aggressively against repetitive stress claims, looking for evidence the injury wasn’t caused by repeat work tasks. As a result, many individuals who seek workers’ compensation benefits without legal representation have their claims ignored, denied or delayed. In some cases, insurers will say that the recommended medical care isn’t necessary, or they may stop or reduce benefits unexpectedly.
Hiring a qualified Massachusetts repetitive stress lawyer ensures that you make the strongest case for your claim. Your lawyer will protect you against aggressive and bullying behavior, investigate your injury and help you present your case successfully.
Call Now For A Free Case Review Of Your Repetitive Stress Work Injuries
A debilitating and painful workplace injury can have long-lasting consequences for victims. And unfortunately, the legal process is complex and overwhelming. Most don’t know what their legal rights are or how to go about filing a workers’ compensation claim.
If you have suffered a repetitive stress work injury, our legal team at the Law Office of Jeffrey A. Young wants to help. We will review the facts of your case, help you determine the legal steps you can take and start the filing process for a workers’ compensation claim. Call at 978-216-1152 now for a free, no-obligation case review.