While the most dramatic and visible work injuries stem from singular accidents, such as falling from a ladder or being hurt by a malfunctioning machine, those caused by repetitive motion can be just as debilitating. These conditions, including everything from lower back problems to carpal tunnel syndrome, often require long-term medical treatment, therapy, and costly surgical procedures and may make it difficult to continue working. Fortunately, employees who develop these conditions are also eligible for worker’s compensation benefits, which provide wage replacement and health care until they are able to work again.

Work-Related Repetitive-Motion Injuries: An Overview

Types of Injuries

The rise of computers in the workplace has made repetitive-motion injuries one of the most common reasons for worker’s compensation claims, causing more missed work than falls, accidental cuts, and industrial incidents. Because so many workers spend their days at a computer, the majority of these conditions involve injury to the hand and arms, although warehouse workers, construction workers, and restaurant employees are also vulnerable to knee problems, persistent lower back pain, and other medical issues related to excessive wear and tear on the body.

Filing a Worker’s Compensation Claim

Once your health care provider has made a diagnosis, the work injury should be reported to your employer as soon as possible. Because proving your condition actually qualifies as a work injury can sometimes be difficult, your employer may dispute liability, and, in some states, you forfeit your right to benefits if you wait too long to file. Even if your injuries don’t appear to be severe yet, you should contact an experienced attorney who will help ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to.

The Law Office of Thomas L. Brayton III, an accomplished legal team serving Waterbury and Bethlehem, CT, has earned an AVVO Superb Attorney Rating by the Legal Community, thanks to their in-depth expertise and steadfast dedication to providing the best service possible to each of their clients. If you’ve suffered a repetitive-motion work injury, visit their website to see how they can help. To schedule a consultation with their Waterbury office, call (203) 591­-8689, or (203) 266-­7100 to speak to an attorney in Bethlehem.