Working in a grocery store may not seem like hazardous work, but it definitely can be as recent events confirm. Most often, cashiers’ ordinary job duties are what put them at the most risk. Repetitive motion injuries are common in the industry and can be debilitating.
Many grocery store cashiers suffer from neck and shoulder pain caused by repeatedly lowering and lifting their arms to move products and accept payment. These same motions can also cause wrist and hand pain that could easily lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. However, that may not be the worst of it.
Most cashiers stand for their entire shift. Over time, they can experience a myriad of musculoskeletal problems. Low back pain, leg pain and swollen feet are unfortunately more normal than they should be. Over time, these pains can turn into injuries that make it difficult to move without pain, perform job duties and engage in daily activities. Floor pads, tall swivel chairs and even shorter chairs can provide some relief, but those options may come too late to reverse any damage already done.
Grocery store cashiers face these injuries every day. Repetitive motion injuries cause a significant amount of discomfort and pain. Some people need surgery to find relief depending on the severity and circumstances of the injury. Some people believe that workers’ compensation benefits are only available to those who suffer injuries in accidents. Fortunately, that is not the case. These types of chronic injuries that occur over time may be covered by Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system as well.
