Is A Repetitive Motion Injury Eligible For Workers’ Comp?

Most of us are aware of the possibility of getting injured on the job through an unfortunate workplace accident. However, the majority of work-related injuries don't involve accidents at all. Instead, they occur due to repeating the same motions over the course of several weeks, months, or years.

These injuries affect all types of workers, from warehouse laborers who frequently lift heavy objects to office workers who spend 40 hours per week in front of a computer. In any case, a repetitive motion injury which can be directly linked to job duties qualifies for Workers' Compensation. However, many workers who suffer from these conditions struggle to receive benefits because of a complex claims process involving insurance companies who look to deny claims.

Repetitive Motion Injuries Vs. Accidental Injuries

Filing a Workers' Comp claim for a repetitive motion injury is different than filing a claim for an accident-related injury, such as a broken bone from a fall. In all work injury cases, employers and their insurance companies will look for reasons to dispute or deny claims. However, it is often more difficult to prove that an RMI is directly related to job duties. Your employer may argue that you acquired the injury during activities outside of work.

While these claims are often disputed, they also require the longest absences from work. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these injuries result in a median of 23 missed days from work.

If you're suffering from one of these injuries and worried about how you can receive the financial assistance you need, there is help available. Monheit Law's dedicated work injury lawyers know what it takes to file a successful claim or appeal.

Common Types Of Injuries

Common repetitive motion injuries which may impair your ability to work include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
• Tendinosis & Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Edema
• Raynaud's disease
• De Quervian syndrome
• Thoracic outlet syndrome

These are just a few examples of the many forms of repetitive motion injuries. If you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions, you should speak with your doctor about your work duties to see if it could be job-related. If you're experiencing any sort of chronic pain, weakness, or impaired function in any body part, you should consider filing a work injury report and speaking with a doctor as soon as possible.

Common Causes

Any job duty which requires the repetition of the same movements over and over again or working in unnatural positions can eventually cause a repetitive motion injury. Common factors contributing to these injuries include:

• Frequent use of computers, including mouses and keyboards
• Overhead work
• Lifting and transporting heavy objects
• Cashiers scanning products
• Working from awkward positions (e.g. electricians, plumbers, ironworkers)
• Standing for long periods of time
• Food service workers cutting foods for prep

Remember that any injury which can be directly attributed to your job duties qualifies for Workers' Comp. It's important to file a claim as soon as you begin to notice symptoms so that you can receive your benefits quickly and without complications.

How Can I Prove My Injury Is Work-Related?

Attempting to work through an injury will likely make your condition worse. Don't hesitate to seek the compensation you need while taking time off to recover.

Filing a successful claim is all about providing detailed evidence for your injury and meeting the requirements of the Workers' Comp Board. In order to do this, you should file your claim as soon as you begin to notice pain or impaired function of a body part. Next, you should meet with a doctor who can evaluate your condition and determine possible causes.

It's important to follow up with additional medical care after your initial appointment. Make sure to get a report from your doctor which explains the extent of your injuries and how they could be job-related.

Additionally, it's usually necessary to have an experienced work injury lawyer to defend you against your employer's insurance carrier. At Monheit Law, we have all the tools you need to receive the full benefits you're entitled to. We can help you gather all of the necessary evidence and documents you need and work with the insurance company on your behalf so that you can focus on your recovery.

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