In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many people are not thinking about one of the most common types of workplace injuries – repetitive motion injuries. However, there is a good chance that many workers face an increased risk of developing repetitive motion injuries during this ongoing global health crisis. With workers across the country undergoing rapid changes in their work environment, including working from home, there has been no time to adjust ergonomically to the situation.
Imagine A Changing Workplace Scenario
In February of 2020, there is a good chance that most people never thought they would be working from home. However, beginning in March and into April, many companies shifted to a mandatory “work from home” style situation. This transition caused by the coronavirus has completely shifted the way many of us do business. While many people have enjoyed the ability to work from home (especially those in LA who no longer have to battle traffic to get to work), there are unintended consequences that many people have not thought about.
At work, those who have a high risk of developing repetitive motion injuries, including those who spend their day typing at their desks, often have workspaces designed to reduce the risk of developing these injuries. This can include having proper office chairs, desks, altered keyboards, and more. However, most employees do not have this type of arrangement in their homes. That could be a problem, particularly if the workload does not decrease. If anything, those who have been asked to work from home will end up spending more time typing than they otherwise would have at the office.
Researchers from the Mayo Clinic say that carpal tunnel syndrome “is a condition that can create numbness and a sensation of tingling in your fingers.” This occurs when the “carpal tunnel” on the underside of the wrist is compressed.
Researchers say that the best treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is to reduce the activity that is causing your symptoms. If employees are required to work from home by their employers, then it is vital that the employer consider providing any equipment they can to reduce the risk of their employees developing repetitive motion injuries. This equipment can be costly for an individual worker, but the employer will be reducing their costs in the long run by providing this equipment. If employers ensure their workers are safe, they are reducing the risk of future workers compensation claims that could end up increasing their premiums.
Call Us For A Free Consultation Of Your Case
If you or somebody you care about has been diagnosed with a repetitive motion injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by workplace activities, contact Los Angeles repetitive motion injury attorneys at Koszdin, Fields & Sherry today. Our qualified and experienced team regularly assists those who have sustained work injuries in Los Angeles and throughout the entire area. Our team understands the nature of repetitive motion injuries and what it takes to ensure you secure the compensation you need.
If you need a repetitive motion injury attorney in Los Angeles or throughout the greater LA area, you can reach out to us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 800-747-3447.
