A repetitive strain injury is the result of overuse of certain body parts and, as the name suggests, doing the same action over and over again. Since many jobs involve repetitive physical tasks, these types of injuries are often occur in the workplace. They can occur in almost any field including clerical work. Repetitive strain injuries may seem minor, but they can actually be painful and debilitating. They can force employees to put down their tools and take time off work. Fortunately, there is some good news.
Repetitiveness strain injuries are covered under
Maryland’s workers compensation system. Therefore, as long as you can prove that your injury occurred at work, you should be able to claim compensation for related losses. In this article, we will look at some of the more common repetitive strain injuries. We’ll also discuss why it’s so important to retain legal counsel if you want to get compensation.
Examples of Repetitive Strain Injuries
There are many types of injuries that result from overuse of a muscle or joint. The most common is probably carpal tunnel syndrome but workers can also develop:
- Bursitis
- Ganglion cysts
- Rotator cuff syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Tenosynovitis
- Trigger finger
- Ulnar tunnel entrapment
These are just some of the conditions that workers in Maryland face. However, long-term overuse of any body part can lead to an injury. This means that you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits even if you don’t have a specific condition. Your doctor may determine that you have a general repetitive strain injury. This is commonly termed a diffuse repetitive strain injury. You will need a medical report and possibly help from a Maryland worker’ compensation attorney to ensure you get compensation.
Why Repetitive Strain Injuries Must be Taken Seriously
Repetitive strain injuries may not seem as serious as other types of injuries that occur in the workplace. A fall from a great height or the development of lung cancer may seem more concerning than carpal tunnel syndrome. However, repetitive strain injuries can be incapacitating. They prevent individuals from performing their jobs and carrying out regular activities at home. Something as simple as putting on your clothing or picking up a pen to write can be painful and almost impossible depending on the nature of the injury. Symptoms of repetitive strain injuries include:
- Pain
- Weakness
- Tingling
- Discomfort
- Numbness
If you begin to experience any of the symptoms you need to seek medical attention. Even if they appear minor at first, they can worsen if you continue to carry out the activity that’s causing them. Depending on the nature of the injury you may be able to work but in a different capacity. However, some people need to take a long time off work. When this happens, they are entitled to compensation. Similarly, if you have to take lower wages in a new, less taxing role you may also be able to get wage loss benefits.
The Importance of Hiring a Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney
A worker who is injured at work or who develops a work-related illness is entitled to compensation. However, you should not assume that these benefits are automatic or that you are guaranteed to get them. Many workers’ comp claims are denied. The employer may not believe the injury is work related or the insurance company may be reluctant to pay the claim. If you slipped and fell on the job, it may be easier to get benefits than if you developed a condition after years of performing the same action. Furthermore, insurance companies often try to limit the amount they have to pay out for repetitive strain injuries.
It can be very distressing when a workers’ comp claim gets denied. If this happens to you, you’ll need someone in your corner. Even if you have a good relationship with your employer, they may not be looking out for your best interests in this instance. However, you shouldn’t wait until your claim gets rejected to seek counsel from a workers’ comp attorney in Maryland. You should contact a lawyer from the start even though it’s not mandatory. Your lawyer will ensure that you claim all the benefits to which you’re entitled and that your rights are protected.
Call the Attorneys at Pinder Plotkin LLC to Discuss Your Case
Our team of
workers’ compensation lawyers in Maryland can help you to claim benefits following a repetitive strain injury. If you’re unable to work because of an occupational illness, you deserve to get compensation. Contact Pinder Plotkin LLC today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you.
