Repetitive Strain Injuries - What You Should Know

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are experienced by hundreds of thousands of workers each and every year. Classified as any condition that affects the musculoskeletal system, including the tendons, muscles, nerves, and joints in the chest, shoulders, arms, hands, neck, and upper or lower back, these injuries are also one of the most costly injuries to companies. In fact, out of all possible injuries on the job, repetitive motion injuries tend to cause the longest work absences. What does an injury like this mean for you or your loved one? The following explains.

While, on one hand, certain jobs really do just require a lot of repetitive motion (writers and data entry professionals who must type, workers in the manufacturing industry who perform similar tasks throughout the day, etc.), there are ways that employers can help to reduce the risk of RSI injuries among their employers. These measures should include:

• Ensuring employees understand proper lifting procedures,
• Reducing additional stress within the workplace,
• Keeping production levels at a manageable pace for employees,
• Automating jobs that may place human employees at risk for injury,
• Ensuring tools work properly and are not any heavier than necessary,
• Permitting short but frequent rest breaks,
• Allowing regular task changes so other muscle groups are used,
• Avoiding any jobs that require awkward or dangerous body mechanics, and
• Performing regular machinery maintenance to prevent excessive use of force.

Sadly, some employers simply do not consider it their responsibility to protect employees from unnecessary injury. Alternatively, there are also some employees who may be more prone to RSIs than others. In either situation, employees should know how to spot this condition in its early phases - especially since early treatment and intervention may help to reduce the overall impact of such an injury. The early warning signs of an RSI include:

• Cramping,
• Stiffness,
• Tingling or numbness,
• Throbbing,
• Weakness,
• Pain or an aching feeling, and
• Tenderness.

Most often, employees will start to notice the symptoms when they are carrying out the repetitive task. Then, as the condition progresses, the symptoms worsen and become more present in the employee’s day-to-day life. If you begin to notice any signs or symptoms, it is critical that you speak to your employer immediately.

If you or someone you love has suffered an RSI, contact Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP. We can examine your case to determine what your options for compensation might be. No matter what the situation, we will always pursue the most favorable outcome possible. Schedule a free consultation with our San Jose work injury lawyers to learn more. Call (408) 289-1417 today.

• Nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses requiring days away from work, 2015
• Repetitive motion results in longest work absences
• Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
• Painful disorders focus of International Repetitive Strain Injury Awareness Day