Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Work-Related Injuries Caused by Repetitive Motion

Some workplace injuries develop over a period of time and do not appear immediately. An injured worker may have difficulty proving such an injury is work-related.

 

Workplace accidents can cause a variety of injuries. While some work-related injuries are minor and only require first aid treatment, others may be quite serious, requiring extensive medical treatment and an extended period of time off work. The more serious types of injuries that may occur at workplaces include fractures, toxic exposure, electrocution, burns, head trauma, and brain injuries.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

 

There are other types of injuries that develop over a period of time and do not show up immediately. An injured worker may realize there is a problem only after the injury has progressed to a stage that begins interfering with the ability to perform daily duties. Such injuries are often caused by repetitive motion and the overuse of muscles. Repetitive motion injuries may cause serious damage to nerves and tendons.


Nerve and tendon injuries can be extremely painful. These injuries are usually long lasting and may severely impede a person’s ability to perform daily work. Common nerve and tendon injuries caused by overuse and repetitive motion include:


Diagnosing Repetitive Motion Injuries

 

These injuries are commonly reported at workplaces that require the worker to perform some kind of a repetitive motion. Nerve and tendon injuries can occur in several ways such as from trauma or inflammation from overuse or physical compression of nerves as in a pinched nerve. The problem with such injuries is that they are very hard to diagnose and treat. The patient may not recognize the injury until it is too late. Many workers who do a lot of physical labor tend to ignore the pain and discomfort and continue to work without getting any medical help for the condition. Due to this, the injury may become chronic and difficult to treat.


If you have been experiencing pain or discomfort, it is important to get immediate medical attention so that a doctor can make a correct diagnosis and provide proper and timely treatment for the injury. Remember, even minor pain or discomfort can indicate the onset of a serious condition, which if left untreated, can turn into a disabling condition.

Missouri Workers' Compensation Benefits

 

If you have suffered a nerve or tendon injury at the workplace, you may be entitled to benefits under the Missouri workers' compensation system, including compensation for medical expenses and temporary or permanent disability benefits. Even minor back pain should not be ignored as it can turn into a serious condition eventually. You may find it difficult to prove that the injury is work-related and not a result of external factors. Seek the help of an experienced Missouri workers' compensation attorney from The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann to protect your legal rights.

The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann

(314) 361-4300