• 20
  • January
    2012

Injury arising out of a single traumatic event, like a motor vehicle accident or a fall, often comes to mind when one thinks of on-the-job events compensable through workers' compensation. But workers' compensation is also meant as a remedy for occupational illnesses that arise over time.

Repetitive stress conditions are one of the most common occupational diseases that affect Americans working in almost every industry. Yet, recognizing a repetitive stress injury and pursuing a workers' compensation claim can be a challenge without professional help.

Recognize Signs of Repetitive Stress, and Get a Professional Opinion

Repetitive trauma injuries can strike a worker engaged in just about any job available in Connecticut. Carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition of the wrist, may be the most well-known repetitive stress disorder. However, repetitive stress can take a toll on tendons, nerves, muscles or ligaments throughout the body.

Along with wrists, the back, thumb, hands, legs, knees and shoulders are among the body parts typically afflicted with repetitive stress injuries. Any constantly repeated physical activity - from typing to lifting and bending - may lead to a repetitive stress condition.

Problematically, the symptoms of repetitive stress injuries often do not manifest until hours after work activity has ceased. This prevents many workers from connecting their after-hours discomfort to work conducted earlier in the day.

The first sign of trouble, including burning, tingling, numbness or pain in the afflicted area, a worker should get the medical opinion of a qualified physician. In addition, any worker who suspects they are suffering from a repetitive stress condition should consider contacting a Connecticut repetitive trauma lawyer to explore remedies available under state law.

Workers' Compensation Claims for Repetitive Trauma Injuries

While workers suffering from a repetitive stress injury have just as much right to workers' compensation benefits as those injured in a workplace accident, they may have to overcome additional hurdles in the claims process. For instance, without strong arguments and the proper medical documentation, it may be difficult to prove whether a repetitive stress disorder arose out of work duties or personal activities. While showing causation of repetitive stress disorders can be a challenge, the long-term and disabling nature of these conditions make pursuing the full workers' compensation benefits you are entitled to particularly important.

Source: Business Management Daily, "Repetitive stress injuries: FAQ," Jan. 3, 2012