Do your wrists ache after a long day of typing away at your computer? Do you feel constant pain in your lower back when you sit at your cubicle desk all day long? These aren’t just minor discomforts you should ignore. In fact, many office workers in Minnesota face these challenges daily.
When these bodily pains come from repeating the same motions at work, you may qualify for worker’s compensation benefits. Thus, understanding what counts as Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI) can help you take the first step towards getting the relief that you deserve.
What are repetitive stress injuries?
Repetitive stress injuries develop when you perform the same movements over and over. Your body doesn’t get enough time to recover between these motions when you come to work everyday. Thus, it eventually leads to damage to your muscles, soft tissues, bones or nerves.
Thankfully, Minnesota’s worker’s compensation system recognizes these injuries as work-related. This means you can seek benefits if your job causes these conditions. Now that you understand how you can get compensated for RSIs, you should also learn to recognize the different ways it can manifest in your body.
Two common types of repetitive stress injuries
Repetitive stress injuries usually fall into two broad categories. Each type affects your body differently, yet both of them can significantly impact your ability to work comfortably. The two categories include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders: These disorders affect your muscles, tendons, joints and soft tissues through repetitive strain. These conditions usually result from constant typing or lifting heavy objects.
- Non-specific pain syndrome: These conditions usually occur when you experience persistent pain without a clear diagnosis. Common examples include general aches and pains or tension in the neck and shoulders.
Both of these categories qualify for worker’s compensation. Yet despite a clear diagnosis or persistent unexplained pain, filing for RSI benefits can often be challenging without the appropriate legal help.
Getting the help you need
Proving repetitive stress injuries can often be challenging. Insurance companies usually question whether your condition truly stemmed from work. They may often try to pass off your injury as something that occurred outside of the office.
This is where having legal counsel can make a difference. An experienced worker’s compensation lawyer knows how to build your case properly. They can help you navigate the system and help you secure the benefits that you deserve.
