When you think of workplace injuries in Missouri, you may associate it with single events such as slips and falls, forklift accidents, or an explosion in a hazardous work environment. However, not all injuries come about as a result of a single trauma. Some injuries occur due to continuous repetitive motion or posture, resulting in the wear and tear of the human body. Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) may include several different conditions involving tendonitis, trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, epicondylitis, lower back pain, and bursitis, amongst others.
According to the St Louis Today, Some of the symptoms you may get from an RSI include acute pains, tingling, loss of strength, numbness, and reduced range of sight, hearing, or flexibility. During the early stages, it may be challenging to take note of the symptoms, especially when maintaining the same working or standing position for a long time. When you do not receive treatment, the symptoms will become well developed, hindering you from performing your duties well.
You may easily get RSI if you are working on jobs that require repeated micro-movements such as using a mouse and keyboard, resulting in the cumulative injuries of your arms, wrists, and hands. It may as well occur if you are continuously lifting heavy items, operating vibrating equipment, and working from awkward postures.
It is essential to always be on the lookout for the early signs of RSI when working and report to your employer immediately. Waiting it out to develop further will not only make it hard for your recovery, but it will also affect your chances of receiving workers’ compensation benefits. You should report to your physician what you were doing, and the time you started experiencing the symptoms. The physician may recommend time limits while working, frequent breaks, or work restrictions.
This information is only to educate you on repetitive stress injuries. It would be best if you do not take it as legal advice.