Repetitive stress work injuries – like carpel tunnel syndrome – are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, these injuries account for about one-third of all workers’ comp claims in Massachusetts. In this article, we discuss the various causes of repetitive stress injuries.

Causes of Repetitive Stress Injuries | Common Examples

Today’s workplaces move more quickly than ever before, and employees are often asked to push their bodies to the limits. Over time, these repetitive and excessive motions wreak havoc on the body, leading to inflammation and chronic pain. Several worker populations are affected more commonly by this type of injury. You may be at a higher risk for developing a repetitive stress work injury if:

• You Spend Long Hours on a Computer – Sitting at a computer might seem safe. Yet, the repetition of sitting and typing at a keyboard is the leading cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. Computer jobs can also cause neck and shoulder pain and vision impairments.
• You Work in Construction – Construction workers are often called upon to complete repetitive tasks. Vibrating tools like jackhammers, for example, cause musculoskeletal trauma after long-term and repeated use. Additionally, heavy lifting and repetitive motions (like swinging a hammer) can also cause repetitive stress injuries.
• You Stand or Sit for Long Hours – Excessive standing or sitting can cause severe damage to the body. If you spend most of the workday on your feet, or sitting at a desk, you may be at risk for developing a repetitive stress condition.
• You Work in Commercial Painting – Commercial painters often have to crank their necks and use their shoulders while working. This industry is at a higher risk for neck, shoulder and other musculoskeletal conditions caused by repetitive strain.
• You’re Required to Carry Heavy Loads – Heavy lifting often causes lower back, hamstring and shoulder injuries. Movers, porters and construction professionals are at the highest risk for developing repetitive strain injuries due to lifting.

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Causes of Repetitive Stress Injuries | Workers’ Compensation

In Massachusetts, workers’ compensation benefits are available for workers who sustain job-related injuries. These benefits help workers pay for related medical costs, as well as to offset lost wages from time away from work.

Additionally, these benefits can compensate workers for non-financial costs related to their injuries, including pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Your benefits can help to cover:

• Medical bills and medical equipment
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Lost wages, loss of future earnings
• Future medical care
• Pain and suffering

If you have suffered a repetitive stress work injury, our legal team wants to help. We will review the facts of your case, help you determine the legal steps you can take, and start the filing process for a workers’ compensation claim. Call now for a free, no-obligation case review with our experienced Lowell workers’ compensation lawyers.