Repetitive strain injuries are one of the biggest threats to Ohio workers, often leading to temporary or long-term disability. A repetitive strain injury occurs when part of the musculoskeletal or nervous system is impacted by repetitive use, vibrations, or long periods in a specific position. Workers in certain industries are more likely than others to be at risk for these injuries. Fortunately, if you or a loved one sustained a repetitive strain injury at work, financial compensation may be available.
Schaffer & Associates LPA is an established personal injury and workers’ compensation law firm serving working men and women across Ohio. We represent victims of repetitive strain injuries, ensuring that they receive the compensation necessary to mitigate medical expenses and lost wages. In turn, injured workers are better able to regain control of their lives and recover from their condition without financial stress. For more information regarding your eligibility, schedule a free consultation with our Toledo repetitive strain injury attorneys at (419) 350-8277 today.
What Is a Repetitive Strain Injury?
A repetitive strain injury is one that is caused by constant use and consistent, repeated motions. These injuries result in a gradual buildup of damage to muscles, tendons, or nerves. Repetitive strain injuries are quite common and can be caused by a variety of activities and movements.
Repetitive strain injuries can impact different parts of the body, most commonly affecting shoulders, elbows, hands and fingers, and forearms and wrists. Some of the most common activities that may result in repetitive strain injuries at work include:
- Regular use of hand-held power tools
- Typing or using a computer mouse
- Hairdressing
- Regular lifting or carrying of loads
- Maintaining an uncomfortable position for extended periods of time
- Performing work activities in cold temperatures
- Assembly line work
There are many types of repetitive strain injuries and for this reason symptoms vary greatly. Some of the general symptoms of repetitive strain injuries include:
- Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the affected muscle or joint
- Throbbing in the impacted area
- Tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation
- Loss of strength
Symptoms of repetitive strain injuries may arise immediately after a person engages in a certain activity or holds a particular posture. Typically, symptoms accrue over time and become more intense the longer a person goes without seeking treatment. Moreover, signs of repetitive strain injuries may begin to appear more frequently, especially if a person does not take regular breaks or rest periods.
What Are Common Conditions that Result from Repetitive Strain Injuries?
Repetitive strain injuries result in cumulative damage to the body, which typically manifest in more serious long-term health issues. For this reason, they often lead to the development of more serious health conditions, such as:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendinitis
- Regional pain syndrome
- Bursitis
- Tenosynovitis
- Rotator cuff syndrome
- Lower back pain
- Myofascial damage
These conditions may be more or less severe depending on the circumstances of the injury. In more serious cases, repetitive strain injuries can cause long term disability or inability to use the affected body part. Because of this, many Ohio workers seek compensation with assistance from Toledo repetitive strain injuries.
What Happens if You Have a Work-Related Repetitive Strain Injury?
Work-related repetitive strain injuries pose a serious financial burden on both the employer and the worker. If a person experiences a work-related repetitive strain injury, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation depending on the state in which they are employed.
Repetitive strain injuries are a major contributor to workers’ compensation claims in the United States. With this in mind it is easy to understand why there has been a major push to prevent these disorders by many national agencies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eliminating repetitive strain injuries could save billions of dollars in workers’ compensation annually. Until policies and procedures are put in place to reduce repetitive strain injuries, however, it is important to understand your options following an accident. If you have a work-related repetitive strain injury, it is important to pursue action to help offset lost wages and medical expenses.
Am I Eligible for Workers’ Compensation If I Experience a Repetitive Strain Injury at Work?
Workplace injuries resulting from repetitive tasks may qualify for Ohio workers’ compensation. According to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, to receive workers’ compensation for a repetitive strain injury, you must be able to prove that the injury is work-related. Particularly, a causal relationship between work and the injury must be proven. Since repetitive strain injuries often take years to fully develop, proving this causal relationship is not always easy.
There are certain steps that a worker can take to help improve the chances of proving that the injury was directly caused by the job, including:
- Seek medical attention the moment you notice symptoms. When consulting a medical professional, it is important to detail your work-related tasks and how these activities may have contributed to the injury.
- Maintain a record of all details related to the injury. This may include documentation of medical visits and treatment, including all dates. These records will be helpful when a Toledo repetitive strain injury attorney reviews your case and must link your injury to your work experience.
It should be noted that these claims are often difficult to prove and require specific records and documentation to substantiate the case. For this reason, it may be essential to seek legal assistance before pursuing workers’ compensation for a repetitive strain injury.
Speak to an Experienced Toledo Repetitive Strain Injury Attorney at Schaffer & Associates LPA Today
Every year, hundreds of Ohio workers experience a repetitive strain injury at work. Unfortunately, these injuries often cause long-term health conditions that impact a worker’s livelihood and ability to earn income. For this reason, workers’ compensation laws have been put in place to support workers who experience repetitive strain injuries on-the-job. Navigating the workers’ compensation claims process is far from straightforward, however, and many workers seek assistance to obtain the full and fair amount of compensation.
At Schaffer & Associates LPA, our team of experienced Toledo repetitive strain injury attorneys advocate for the rights of injured workers. Above all, we believe that working men and women should not suffer due to a workplace injury. We work to secure every possible dollar in compensation, even pursuing litigation if necessary. To learn more about how we can represent you in a workers’ compensation case, contact our Toledo office today at (419) 350-8277.
