The Most Common Repetitive Stress Injuries

Not all injuries that occur on the job happen in a one-time accident that results in broken bones or lacerations. In fact, many injuries happen over a span of time, gradually evolving into a bigger problem that becomes too much for the employee to bear. These are commonly referred to as repetitive stress injuries, or wear and tear injuries, and can develop in any industry, no matter how dangerous or seemingly safe the occupation appears to be. They can affect the joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons of an individual and, depending on the severity, can be temporary or permanent. If you developed a repetitive stress injury at work, you might be eligible for crucial workers’ compensation benefits.

Below are some of the most common types of repetitive stress injuries people suffer as a result of performing their job duties:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The dominant hand is usually affected by this condition, which causes the median nerve in that hand to become pinched. Swelling develops, causing the nerve to compress inside the tunnel, leading to numbness and pain. If not treated, the hand muscles will deteriorate over time.

• Tendonitis: This condition develops when the tendons are overused and overstretched, resulting in painful inflammation. It often occurs in the elbows, wrists, shoulders, and biceps. If left untreated, the tendon can rupture, which will require surgery.

• Bursitis: The body has more than 150 bursae, which are small sacs that cushion the area between the bone and tendon. Bursae are found all over the body in areas where friction develops and, when the sacs become inflamed, bursitis can develop. It is most common in the hips, elbows, and knees.

• Lumbar Injuries: Computer work might not seem like something that can lead to an injury but having to sit for lengthy periods of time can cause lumbar injuries. Heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling can also cause lumbar sprains and strains.

• Disc Injuries: Sitting for too long can also cause vertebral discs to sprain. Poor posture can also cause this injury, which can lead to serious pain and possible nerve damage.

• Stress Fractures: Overloading the body on a regular basis can cause a person to develop stress fractures, which are essentially tiny cracks that can be found on the surface of the bone. Working while wearing old, worn-out shoes can also result in stress fractures.

Bakersfield Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

If you sustained a repetitive stress injury while performing your job duties, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. At Berry, Smith & Bartell, a Professional Law Corporation, we have over 130 years of combined experience and are dedicated to providing affordable legal representation to those who have suffered work-related injuries and occupational illnesses. Reach out to our law firm today!

Call us at 1 (800) 848-6288 to schedule your free, confidential consultation. If we cannot win your case, you will not owe us any legal fees!