Repetitive stress injuries can be painful and difficult to live with and can make it challenging for sufferers to work or perform daily activities. Workers’ compensation protections may be able to help injured workers who are suffering from repetitive stress injuries.
Different types of repetitive stress injuries
Repetitive stress injuries refer to a gradual buildup of damage to the muscles, tendons and nerves from repetitive motion activity. There are a variety of different types of repetitive stress injuries workers and others may suffer including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome;
- Bursitis;
- Tendonitis;
- Rotator cuff tendonitis; and
- Tennis elbow, among others.
What are the symptoms of repetitive stress injuries?
Symptoms of repetitive stress injuries can be debilitating including:
- Pain that can vary in intensity and can include chronic pain;
- Tenderness;
- Swelling;
- Stiffness;
- Tingling and numbness;
- Throbbing;
- Weakness; and
- Sensitivity to cold or heat
Repetitive stress injuries can sometimes be difficult to treat. Treatment can include rest, ice, compression, elevation, certain medications and exercises, as well as other types of treatment. Workers suffering with a repetitive stress injury should know what to watch for and the protections available to them.
A variety of different professions can be impacted by repetitive stress injuries. Dental hygienists, construction workers, cleaners, cooks, bus drivers, musicians and others, including those who work at a computer, may all be vulnerable to repetitive stress injuries. When a worker is unable to continue to work because of a repetitive stress injury, it is helpful for them to be aware that workers’ compensation benefits may be able to help and how to obtain them.