Not all injuries sustained on the job occur from a one-time incident. In many cases, workplace injuries can happen over a span of time. These types of injuries are referred to as repetitive stress injuries, or wear and tear injuries. A wear and tear injury is sustained from repeatedly engaging in certain movements throughout the workday, which typically involve the upper body, including the forearms and elbows, wrists and hands, and the neck and shoulders. If you suffered a wear and tear injury on the job, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to assist you with your recovery.
What is a Repetitive Stress Injury and How Do I Know if I Have One?
Repetitive stress injuries do not immediately appear to be serious. They might start off as a mild annoyance and later develop into something more severe and painful, to the point where the individual has to miss work or simply live with the pain. Although symptoms vary from person to person, some are more common than others. The following are some of the most frequently experienced symptoms individuals suffer due to a repetitive stress injury:
- Joint and muscle tenderness
- Joint and muscle pain
- Tingling or throbbing in the afflicted area
- Loss of strength or sensation in the afflicted area
Any worker can sustain wear and tear injuries, but some are at a higher risk than others. Jobs that put workers at a high risk for repetitive stress injuries include:
- Factory work
- Extensive typing or computer work
- Jobs that require frequent heavy lifting
Below is a list of the most common wear and tear injuries. If you suffered any of the following conditions, it might be related to your job:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Hearing loss
- Rotator cuff and shoulder injuries
- Tendonitis
- Meniscal lesions
- Osteoarthritis
- Fractures
- Degenerative bone disorders
What Can I Do if I Have a Wear and Tear Injury?
If you believe you sustained a wear and tear injury at work, the first thing you should do is immediately visit your doctor. He or she will be able to diagnose you and suggest appropriate treatment methods. Treatment could include physical therapy, regular stretching, or even physical exercise, all of which could possibly reduce your symptoms.
After seeking a diagnosis and treatment, you should report the injury to your employer. Although many employees are hesitant or afraid to do so, reporting an injury is a critical step in the workers’ compensation process. Despite what many might think about wear and tear injuries, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, so do not hesitate to report it to your employer as soon as you become aware of the problem.
When pursuing workers’ compensation for your injuries, make sure you gather evidence to support your claim. This includes:
- Medical records
- Employment history records
- Witness statements
- Expert opinions
Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Orange County
If you developed a repetitive stress injury from performing your job duties, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. At Alvandi Law Group, P.C., our Orange County workers’ compensation attorneys have extensive experience in preparing and filing such claims on behalf of our clients. Additionally, if we cannot win your case, you will not have to pay us a dime.
Regardless if you are in the initial phases of your claim or believe you were unfairly denied your benefits, our legal team has the in-depth knowledge that is necessary to effectively handle your claim.
Contact our office today at (800) 980-6905 to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about what we can do for you.