Yes, RSIs are covered under workers’ compensation
When Illinois residents think of work-related injuries, they think of big things, big events that cause a person to suffer significant physical losses. Not all work injuries are like this, though. Sometimes, it is the little things that can add up over time that can cause a person to experience a great deal of pain. Let’s look at repetitive stress injuries as an example. Yes, such injuries are covered under workers’ compensation.
RSIs occur from doing the same tasks day in and day out. It could be typing on the computer, using the same motions to lift heavy objects or hammering nails — among other things. It doesn’t matter what it is; performing the same movements repeatedly stresses one’s joints and muscles, and can cause significant damage.
There are many types of RSIs. The most common show up in the following forms: carpal tunnel syndrome, back injuries, trigger finger, tennis elbow, tendonitis and bursitis. Symptoms of an RSI include:
- Pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Loss of flexibility
- Reduction in range of motion
At first, these symptoms may seem minor, but over time, the damage can become extensive and the resulting pain unbearable. Getting treatment as soon as possible is advised in order to help avoid suffering permanent injury. The problem is, too few people choose to seek help in the early stages of an RSI.
RSIs can happen in any working environment. No one in Illinois or elsewhere is immune. Those who suspect they have repetitive stress injuries due to their job duties have every right to file for workers’ compensation benefits. Proving an RSI is strictly job-related can be a difficult task, but with the assistance of legal counsel, one may be able to do just that and achieve maximum relief for his or her losses in the process.