Office workers have to face the same kind of job risks that everyone else has. There is a small but noteworthy risk of interpersonal violence for those who work in an office. Falls can also occur even in an office space that is on one floor with no stairs. All it takes is an errant power cord or coffee spill to leave someone with a broken bone or a traumatic brain injury.
However, many office workers who eventually need workers’ compensation benefits will have a claim not because of a single traumatic incident but rather because of frequent overuse or lack of ergonomic support.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common issue for office workers
When you have to type or hold the phone all day for work, the strain on your hands and arms builds up over time. Eventually, you could develop carpal tunnel syndrome, which could limit your strength and cause pain or tingling in your wrists, hands and forearms. Left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome may continue to progress until a worker can no longer do the same job anymore.
Back and neck issues are common in office workers
Specific job responsibilities aren’t the only way an office worker might develop cumulative trauma. Sitting all day at a desk can cause injury on its own.
A chair without adequate lumbar support could put a worker at increased risk of developing issues in their lower back or hips. Sitting slouched forward all day could cause pain in your shoulders or neck that may ultimately result in chronic pain or lost flexibility. Workers experiencing these symptoms may need a leave of absence, medical treatment or even ergonomic supports provided by their employer.
Understanding when you might qualify for workers’ compensation as an office employee can help you get the benefits you need.