Accidents happen at work, especially in physically demanding jobs like construction, nursing and manufacturing. But it does not take a dramatic or violent workplace incident to get hurt on the job. You can avoid accidents at work and still end up with a serious and debilitating injury.
Warning signs of a repetitive stress injury
Repetitive stress injuries are some of the most common work-related bodily damage that Cleveland workers can suffer. Work tasks like bending over, lifting and carrying heavy objects, twisting your body and typing can wear down your body over time. According to the Cleveland Clinic, repetitive stress injuries most often damage the tendons, nerves and muscles. Such injuries tend to happen to the following body parts:
- Fingers and thumbs
- Wrists
- Arms
- Elbows
- Shoulders
- Knees
Common work-related repetitive stress injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, shin splints and back sprains. Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, stiffness, weakness and heat or cold sensitivity. For minor injuries, the RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method and over-the-counter pain medication can help. But if your repetitive stress disorder is more serious, your doctor might prescribe physical and/or occupational therapy to reduce pain and regain strength and flexibility in the affected area. Surgery is necessary in the most severe cases.
No need to show fault
Workers’ compensation does not require proof that you got hurt in an accident because your employer or some other party was negligent. All that matters is that your injuries were suffered in the course of performing your work duties, either in a single incident or over the years. An experienced Cleveland workers’ comp lawyer can help you if you have been turned down for benefits related to a repetitive stress injury.