Repetitive strain injuries, or RSIs, are one of the most common but underreported types of workplace injury.
Unlike accidents, RSIs are experienced gradually through a cycle of repetitive motion, awkward posture, or continued strain in a part of the body. Since these types of injuries are usually gradual, the vast majority of workers are not sure if they qualify for workers’ compensation.
In a bustling city like Washington, D.C., where work environments can range from fast-paced office settings to physically demanding jobs, it’s essential to be aware of the risks of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).
Therefore, if you’re dealing with an RSI, it’s essential to consult a workers’ compensation law firm in Washington, D.C., to ensure your rights are protected.
This article discusses whether or not a workers’ compensation claim can be made for RSI.
Understanding Repetitive Strain Injuries
RSIs are a group of conditions resulting from repetitive activity or constant physical stress.
Examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, and trigger finger. They often occur in office workers typing for several hours, warehouse workers moving heavy boxes, or factory workers repeating motions throughout their shifts.
Since RSIs occur gradually, they become more difficult to identify and link to a job activity due to inadequate documentation or medical assessment.
How Workers’ Compensation Covers RSI
Workers’ compensation exists to assist workers who get hurt or sick due to their jobs, even if they are not at fault. This also applies when the injury happens gradually, such as with RSIs.
Should your condition be caused or exacerbated by your job, though, then you might qualify for compensation in the form of medical costs, loss of wages, and rehabilitation services.
Steps to File a Claim for RSI
Below are the steps you should follow while claiming RSI:
Step 1: Inform Your Employer
The first step in pursuing a claim for RSI is to inform your employer as soon as possible. Despite the fact that the injury can arise in a gradual process rather than as a one-time accident, it is crucial to report it in a timely manner.
Step 2: Seek Medical Evaluation
Once you’ve notified your employer, your second step should be obtaining treatment from a healthcare provider approved by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer. This is important because if your injury is not treated by approved healthcare providers, your claim will be rejected.
During your consultation with the medical professional, be specific when describing the symptoms you are experiencing.
Step 3: File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Once you have received medical treatment, you must formally file a workers’ compensation claim. This involves completing the paperwork your state’s workers’ compensation system requires.
Step 4: Appeal if Denied
Do not lose hope if your workers’ compensation claim is denied. Workers’ compensation claims are sometimes denied for various reasons, including a lack of proper medical evidence or a failure to demonstrate the cause of your injury by your employment.
If this happens, you can appeal the decision.
Conclusion
Yes, it is possible to claim workers’ compensation for a repetitive strain injury, and numerous workers successfully do so. While showing the work link may be more challenging, even where the condition has been developed gradually, it is your right as a worker to obtain redress for pain resulting from RSI.
