Every occupation has its share of risks and hazards. However, not all work-related injuries are instantaneous. Some workplace injuries develop over time.
Repetitive stress or strain injuries (RSIs) are one of the most common work-related injuries. If you develop repetitive strain injuries as a result of your work, you may be entitled to financial restitution through the workers’ compensation program. But how does this happen?
Understanding the warning signs
Repetitive stress injuries come in many forms. And while each RSI presents its unique symptoms, here are some of the most common ones:
- Chronic pain that just cannot go away
- Pain that worsens when you perform routine tasks or move around
- Swelling or stiffness in the affected areas of the body
- Reduced mobility in the affected area
Left untreated RSIs can become debilitating and limit your ability to work and enjoy a quality life. Regardless of the severity of your symptoms, you don’t have to let work-related pain limit you.
Proving that your RSI is work-related
To receive workers’ compensation benefits, you must prove that your job has something to do with your repetitive strain injuries. So, how do you do this?
Linking your work-related injuries to RSI involves obtaining a comprehensive medical report that clearly links your job to your injuries. This underpins the importance of seeking treatment when you feel the pain. If you sought physiotherapy, be sure to mention this in your claim. For instance, carpal tunnel injuries and joint and muscle strains are quite common among warehouse workers.
Your next step after seeking treatment is reporting your injuries to your employer and filing your claim per Illinois workers’ compensation laws. Understanding these laws work can help you protect your rights and interests while pursuing the benefits you deserve.
