Some work injuries are instantaneous. A worker falls and breaks a bone or slips and cuts their arm. There is a specific incident at work that leads to the injury, and the worker likely realizes that they are hurt right away.
Repetitive strain injuries don’t develop overnight, but symptoms may arise with little warning. Typically, workers have to continue performing the same job functions for months, if not years, before they notice any symptoms. Repetitive strain injuries can affect joints and connective tissue. They can impact a worker’s range of motion, speed and strength.
Office workers, bus drivers, retail professionals, nurses and factory workers are among those at risk of repetitive strain injuries. Also sometimes called repetitive stress injuries, these conditions can affect professionals’ ability to do their jobs.
How can workers’ compensation benefits help?
Workers can take time off to heal
One of the biggest challenges when treating a repetitive strain injury is that people still have to perform certain functions. Every time they pick up a certain tool or repeat a common job function, they put themselves at risk of increased symptoms. Time off from work is often necessary to allow injured body parts to heal.
Temporary total disability benefits make it possible for workers to follow medical instructions by taking a leave of absence. In some cases, they could also limit their lost wages if they move to a lower-paid job temporarily. Partial disability benefits can help offset reduced wages. The ability to cease performing the job functions that caused the injury can improve a worker’s chances of recovering and getting back to work.
Workers can receive no-cost care
The medical coverage available through workers’ compensation is better than private health insurance. Workers do not have to cover deductibles, copays or coinsurance. So long as the treatment is medically necessary, workers’ compensation may pay for it.
Those with repetitive strain injuries may need physical therapy. They may take pain relievers and muscle relaxants. They may even require surgery in extreme cases. Workers’ compensation can pay for all of that treatment.
Unfortunately, conditions not caused by a specific work incident can sometimes lead to more complicated benefits claims. Securing support when applying for workers’ compensation benefits can help professionals address a repetitive strain injury as effectively as possible.