Common Repetitive Stress Injuries
RSIs affect various body parts depending on job duties:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Wrist/hand pain and numbness from repetitive gripping, typing, or vibration
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons in shoulders, elbows, wrists, or knees
- Bursitis: Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs cushioning joints
- Back Injuries: Chronic pain from repetitive lifting, bending, or prolonged sitting/standing
- Trigger Finger: Finger locks in bent position from repetitive gripping
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: Shoulder damage from repetitive overhead work
Proving Your RSI Is Work-Related
The challenge with RSI claims is proving your condition resulted from work rather than other activities. Evidence to gather includes:
- Detailed job description including physical demands
- Medical records showing onset and progression of symptoms
- Doctor's opinion linking your condition to work activities
- Ergonomic assessments of your workstation
- Co-worker statements about similar injuries
- Employer knowledge of the hazard and any complaints you made
Steps to Take When Symptoms Develop
Protect your claim by taking these steps when you first notice symptoms:
- Report symptoms to your supervisor in writing immediately
- Request a medical evaluation through workers' comp
- Be specific about which work activities aggravate your condition
- Document your job duties and any changes over time
- Keep a symptom diary noting when pain occurs
- Follow all treatment recommendations
- Request ergonomic modifications to your workstation
Employer Defenses and How to Counter Them
Employers often contest RSI claims with arguments like:
"Your hobbies caused the injury": Counter with evidence that work activities were the primary cause or significant contributing factor.
"You didn't report it timely": Document when symptoms first appeared and when you reported them.
"It's a pre-existing condition": Even if you had a pre-existing condition, work that aggravated it is still compensable.
"Your job doesn't involve repetitive motion": Provide detailed documentation of actual job duties.
Benefits for RSI Claims
Successful RSI claims entitle you to:
- Medical Treatment: Doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, surgery if needed
- Temporary Disability: Wage replacement while recovering (typically 2/3 of average weekly wage)
- Permanent Disability: Compensation if you have lasting impairment
- Job Modifications: Employers may be required to provide ergonomic accommodations
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Training for alternative work if you can't return to your job