When we go to work, the last thing we think about or expect is an injury. Unfortunately, sometimes accidents do happen. When we think about workplace injuries, the first thing that comes to mind is often major falls, slips of a knife, or maybe vehicle accidents. All of these are traumatic, but by no means do they account for most workplace injuries.
Did you know that the most common injuries in the workplace are musculoskeletal disorders and that many of those are caused by cumulative trauma rather than a single event? These are repetitive stress injuries (RSIs), and they can be detrimental to your ability to work. If you have a repetitive stress injury and are having a hard time getting medical assistance, you may need to contact a workers’ compensation attorney in Lancaster. At the law firm of Koszdin, Fields & Sherry, we will help you navigate the waters of this kind of injury.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
If your job requires you to make repeated motion patterns throughout your workday, or you have to maintain a singular posture for most of your shift, you are at risk of an RSI. Historically, the most common types of workers prone to RSIs were industrial and factory workers, which makes sense considering the repetitive nature of their work. However, there has been an increase in RSIs due to modern technological devices. Think about it, when using a computer, tablet, phone, or other new technology, we are repeating the same motions over and over again.
Many workers are prone to RSIs, whether a factory worker or someone who is employed in an office environment. Unfortunately, symptoms may take a long time to develop and manifest themselves, sometimes years after someone has begun a job.
Not Like Other Injuries
Because RSIs do not typically present themselves as a “normal” workplace injury such as trauma, they are often not taken as seriously by employers and insurers. You may not feel much pain right away and you may possibly try to push through it, thinking that the pain will pass. We want you to know that we understand RSIs and that they can be debilitating, preventing you from performing your job. Repetitive motions in one part of the body can also affect the muscles in another part, exasperating your level of pain. RSIs deserve to be treated as workplace injuries and given appropriate medical attention and treatment.
What To Do
If you are suffering from an RSI and your employer or workers’ compensation insurance is denying you proper benefits, you may need to reach out to a workplace injury attorney in Lancaster. At the law firm of Koszdin, Fields & Sherry, we understand that not all workplace injuries look the same. RSIs are serious injuries that can put you and your family at risk. Whether you are owed workers’ compensation or are having trouble dealing with your employer, you can reach out to us by clicking here or calling one of these numbers: 818-812-5639 or 800-747-3447.
