Repetitive Stress Injuries And Workers' Compensation
Though many work accidents happen suddenly, there is another type of work injury that takes place over a longer period of time. Repetitive stress injuries can happen when a worker repeatedly performs the same motions and overworks muscles, ligaments, and more. This type of injury is covered by workers' compensation, but it may be more difficult to obtain benefits. For some help with that issue, read below.
Certain Jobs Require Repetitive Motions
While almost any job can call for workers to perform the same motions again and again, it's the duration of the task that can make workers more likely to suffer from strains and stress in certain areas. Assembly line workers may use their hands and wrists so much that they develop carpal tunnel syndrome, for example. Typists or keyboard users may also be prone to that type of injury. Other repetitive stress conditions are tendinitis, bursitis, and more.
How to Obtain Benefits
Your workers' compensation insurance should cover your injury regardless of the type. However, insurers may not make it easy to get a claim approved. Take the below steps to help ensure that you are covered for medical expenses, disability pay, and a settlement, if applicable:
- While workers should report any injuries to their direct supervisor as soon as possible, this type of injury may be tricky due to its nature. For example, some workers may think that pain and stiffness are temporary conditions that will clear up with rest and some over-the-counter medication. That can lead to delays in reporting the injury.
- Get medical treatment as soon as you notice pain and other symptoms that don't go away with a few hours of rest. Some severe conditions can continue to affect workers during their days off. Once you have a confirmed diagnosis, let your supervisor know about it.
- Request that a workers' compensation claim is filed right away. Time away from work to rest the affected area is a key part of your recovery. If your claim is approved, you may be paid a disability wage to help make up for your lost time at work.
- Some stress injuries never heal enough to allow workers to return to their jobs. When that occurs, workers could be eligible for a settlement from the workers' compensation insurer.
Consult a workers' compensation lawyer for help. It's vital to reap the workers' comp insurance benefits and to be paid enough money with a settlement.