Seeking Workers' Compensation for Repetitive Injuries from Office Work

 Posted on February 03, 2021 in Workers' Compensation

When people think about workers’ compensation injuries, they often imagine sudden injuries that occur in a fall or other traumatic accident. However, accident-related injuries are not the only types of injuries covered by California workers’ compensation. Individuals suffering from repetitive stress injuries or repetitive motion injuries may also be entitled to compensation. Office workers are often vulnerable to injuries caused by typing and other office work. However, it is sometimes difficult for injured office workers to receive the compensation they deserve.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Other Repetitive Motion Injuries

The most common office-related repetitive stress injury is carpal tunnel syndrome. Typing on a computer keyboard, filing, and other office tasks require repetitive hand and wrist motions. This can put too much pressure on the median nerve and can cause painful symptoms including numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain. Medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders increase a worker’s chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median number of workdays missed due to carpal tunnel is 27. Cervical radiculopathy, ganglion cyst, tendonitis, De Quervain's Disease, and bursitis are other repetitive stress injuries that may be caused by office work.

Pursuing Compensation for Repetitive Stress Injuries

In California, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you are an employee and you suffer an on-the-job injury, you should be compensated for your medical bills and lost wages. However, getting the compensation you deserve is not always this easy. Your claim may be denied on the basis that your injury was preexisting or was not related to your work duties. A workers’ compensation attorney can assist you with the process of filing a claim or appealing a claim that was denied. Your lawyer can also help you avoid mistakes that could reduce your chances of a successful claim.

Contact a Hollister Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

At Cramer & Martinez, LLP, we understand how painful and debilitating a repetitive stress injury can be. We also know that obtaining compensation for repetitive stress injuries through workers’ compensation can be complicated and frustrating. Our team can guide you through the claim process and deal with any complications that arise. If your worker’s compensation claim has been denied, we can help you appeal the denial with the California Division of Workers' Compensation. Call our office today at 408-848-1113 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a skilled San Benito County workers’ compensation attorney.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603

https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2001/apr/wk1/art01.htm