Workplace injuries are an all too common occurrence in many workplaces in Rome. Whether you work in an office, healthcare setting or manufacturing plant, at some point you may find yourself wondering if you can get workers’ comp for repetitive stress injuries. You may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if you can prove your injuries are related to your current job duties.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 24,410 reported cases of workplace repetitive stress injuries in 2015. Unlike other forms of workplace injuries, occupational overuse wounds are often non-life-threatening. But, they can interfere with your mobility and ability to work pain and discomfort-free. They can become so severe that the symptoms mimic those of severe workplace accidents like falls.
Repetitive stress injuries can take months to years to develop. You may have worked for several different employers during that time before you start to notice pain, soreness and other symptoms that are common with repetitive stress injuries. For example, you have previous work-related injuries from a job that you had over 10 years ago that were treated. If your current job duties cause aggravation to those injuries or you develop new ones, you may have a claim. However, the initial signs of repetitive stress injuries often mimic other discomforts, making them easy to ignore.
Workers’ compensation cases involving repetitive stress injuries are often complicated. If you experience any pain, soreness and discomfort performing your job duties, you should inform your employer and see a doctor who can document your situation and administer treatment.