Work Related Repetitive Strain Injuries
Connecticut workers who have suffered occupational diseases due to repetitive motions deserve help. Find out what can be done in these cases.
People employed in a variety of jobs in Connecticut can be subject to developing a repetitive strain injury. In fact, these conditions are frequently associated with job tasks that must be performed over and over again. For example, data entry clerks and assembly line workers often suffer from these injuries.
What is a repetitive strain injury?
According to WebMD.com, tendonitis and bursitis are the two most frequently experienced forms of repetitive strain injuries. The “itis” suffix indicates that inflammation is involved with both conditions. Accompanying this inflammation can be chronic pain. It is ultimately the pain which can cause people to require time away from work.
The tissue that holds muscles to bones are the tendons that are prone to swelling upon overuse. In areas like joints where a lot of friction occurs, sacs calls bursae develop to act as a cushion and also to add lubrication. In some situations, these sacs themselves become swollen. Patients can develop both bursitis and tendonitis due to the same motion.
Areas most often afflicted with bursitis or tendonitis are biceps, elbows, shoulders, hips and knees. It is possible, however, for these conditions to be found in other parts as well.
Known risk factors for RSIs
Certainly repeating a single motion over a long period of time can lead to the development of an RSI. The Occupational Safety Health Administration explains that there are also other risk factors for these conditions. The use of extreme force, being forced to hold unnatural or awkward positions for extended period of times and lifting very heavy items can also increase a person’s chance of having an RSI. Some people experience more than one of these factors when performing job duties.
Anyone can have an RSI
Certain work-related injuries are more likely to happen to people in select industries. Repetitive strain injuries, however, can really impact people in virtually any job segment. Repetitive motions may be regular parts of blue collar jobs and office positions as well.
HealthDay recommends that people who must repeat a motion at work make a conscious effort to take breaks as frequently as possible, without hindering work. Creating a truly ergonomic work area is another way of reducing the risk of an RSI developing. Desk works should always keep their feet flatly on the ground. Lifting or holding items should be done with light grips to reduce strain.
When help is needed
When an RSI has taken hold and progressed to the point of interfering with a person’s ability to work, help is needed. Talking to a lawyer is recommended and can be a valuable source of assisting Connecticut residents with receiving compensation.