Repetitive Stress Injuries: What All Workers Should Know

When you get injured at work, such as from a fall or laceration, it’s instantly clear how and when the injury occurred. There might be issues arising that complicate these types of workplace accident claims, but the fact that the injury happened at work isn’t usually contested if you report it promptly. 

Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) can be more complex. If you sustain one of these types of injuries on the job, you should be able to file a claim. However, many employers will say they aren’t work-related because there is no specific event linked to the condition. Here’s what you need to know about repetitive stress injuries and how they can be related to your employment. 

What is a Repetitive Stress Injury?

Repetitive stress injuries are also referred to as repetitive strain injuries and repetitive motion injuries. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), these types of injuries are some of the fastest-growing occupational injuries, accounting for roughly one-third of all lost workday cases. 

These are injuries that develop gradually over time due to repeated motions. One of the most common types of RSIs is carpal tunnel syndrome, resulting from repetitive wrist motions such as typing, using power tools, handling items on a conveyor belt, or scanning products at a cash register. Other types of repetitive stress injuries include:

• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Trigger finger
• Radial tunnel syndrome
• Nerve entrapment disorders
• Ulnar tunnel syndrome
• Impingement syndrome
• Thoracic outlet syndrome
• DeQuervaine’s syndrome
• Epicondylitis

Workers at Risk for RSIs

Many factors can contribute to the development of an RSI. If your job requires that you perform tasks that lead to excess strain on your body due to repetitive motions, you may be at risk. For example, if you are asked to repeatedly lean over a counter to grab heavy or awkward items, this could impact the muscles in your arms, neck, or back over time. Some of the actions that can put workers at risk for RSIs include:

• Holding an awkward posture
• Using vibrating equipment
• Performing repetitive tasks
• Working in environments that aren’t ergonomically sound
• Lifting heavy or awkward items
• Failing to take sufficient breaks

The potential for RSIs exists in just about any workplace. However, there is a greater risk in some industries than others. Some employees who are at a high risk of suffering RSIs include:

• Mechanics
• Construction workers
• Assembly line workers
• Dairy and farm workers
• Bus and truck drivers
• Healthcare workers
• Mail carriers
• Cashiers
• Sewing machine operators
• Restaurant workers
• Clerical and office workers

Common Symptoms of RSIs

The symptoms experienced by a person suffering from an RSI will vary depending on the type of injury they have and how severe it is. Here are some common symptoms that tend to appear with most RSIs:

• Stiffness
• Tenderness and pain
• Throbbing or achiness
• Burning sensation or soreness
• Numbness, pins and needles, or tingling
• Cramps
• Loss of coordination
• Weakness

These symptoms often appear gradually over time. For many, the symptoms will subside or disappear with rest and then reappear and worsen as the repetitive work continues. A lot of patients report being unable to sleep at night due to pain and numbness. Some get to the point that they are no longer able to do their jobs due to worsening symptoms. 

What to Do If You Believe You Have an RSI

If the symptoms listed above match what you’re experiencing, it’s a good idea to seek immediate medical attention. Putting off treatment will only allow your condition to worsen, and it could impact your ability to file a claim once you are aware there is a problem. 

OSHA requires that employers identify and remedy any hazards that can injure employees, including those that can cause RSIs. You should report your condition to your employer so they can make proper accommodations and fix the job conditions that are leading to workplace injuries. If your condition is work-related, you may also be eligible for compensation. 

How to Learn More About Repetitive Stress Injuries

Your doctor can give you valuable information about recovering from repetitive stress injuries. There are also a variety of online resources that can help you learn more about these work-related injuries, including:

• Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI): Cleveland Clinic
• Ergonomics Overview – OSHA

If you suspect you’ve suffered from a repetitive stress injury at work, it’s important to understand that you have rights. Specifically, most employers are required under OSHA to offer employees a workplace that protects them from serious harm. If you’ve been hurt, you should seek medical attention and consider discussing your rights with a qualified OSHA Injury Attorney.