Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims for Repetitive Stress Injuries: What You Need to Know

Workplace injuries aren’t always the result of a single, sudden accident. In many cases, employees develop repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) over time due to the nature of their work. These injuries occur from repeated motions, such as typing, lifting, or assembly line work, and can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term health problems. Fortunately, New Jersey’s workers’ compensation laws cover repetitive stress injuries, allowing workers to seek compensation for their medical bills and lost wages.

In this blog, we’ll discuss how RSIs develop, how to file a workers’ compensation claim for these types of injuries, and how a workers’ compensation lawyer can help ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.

What Are Repetitive Stress Injuries?

Repetitive stress injuries occur when the body performs the same motion repeatedly over time. These motions place stress on muscles, tendons, and nerves, eventually causing damage. RSIs can affect various parts of the body, but the most commonly affected areas include the wrists, hands, elbows, and shoulders.

Some of the most common repetitive stress injuries include:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Carpal tunnel is common among office workers who spend long hours typing.

Tendinitis: Tendinitis refers to the inflammation of a tendon, which can result in pain and limited mobility. Repetitive movements like lifting, reaching, or gripping can cause tendinitis, particularly in the shoulders or elbows.

Bursitis: Bursitis occurs when the bursae, small sacs of fluid that cushion the joints, become inflamed. Repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on a joint, such as kneeling or leaning on the elbows, can lead to bursitis.

Tennis Elbow: Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is caused by repetitive motions of the arm and wrist, leading to inflammation and pain in the outer elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow commonly affects workers who perform repetitive tasks like using tools or operating machinery.

How Repetitive Stress Injuries Impact Your Ability to Work

RSIs can significantly impact your ability to perform your job. Over time, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced strength, and limited range of motion, making it difficult to complete tasks that require fine motor skills or physical exertion. In severe cases, workers may be unable to return to their jobs or may require accommodations to continue working.

For example, an office worker with carpal tunnel syndrome may struggle to type, while a warehouse employee with tendinitis in their shoulder may have difficulty lifting or moving objects. Without proper treatment, RSIs can worsen over time, potentially leading to permanent disability.

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for Repetitive Stress Injuries

If you’ve developed a repetitive stress injury due to your job, you have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim in New Jersey. Workers’ compensation benefits can help cover the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages. However, proving that an RSI is work-related can be more challenging than other types of workplace injuries.

Here’s how to file a successful workers’ compensation claim for an RSI:

Report the Injury to Your Employer: As soon as you notice symptoms of a repetitive stress injury, it’s essential to report the injury to your employer. In New Jersey, you must notify your employer of your injury within 90 days. Delaying this step could jeopardize your ability to receive benefits.

Seek Medical Treatment: To prove that your injury is work-related, you’ll need medical documentation. Your employer may direct you to a specific doctor for evaluation. Be sure to provide detailed information about your job duties and how they’ve contributed to your injury. Your doctor’s diagnosis will be critical in supporting your claim.

File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Once your injury has been documented, your employer should provide you with the necessary paperwork to file a workers’ compensation claim. This claim will request benefits for medical treatment, temporary disability, and permanent disability if applicable.

Consult a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer: Repetitive stress injury claims can be more complicated than claims for more apparent injuries, like broken bones or back injuries. Insurance companies may attempt to deny your claim, arguing that your injury isn’t work-related or that you didn’t report it promptly. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate these challenges and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

What to Do If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied

Unfortunately, not all workers’ compensation claims are approved. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Common reasons for claim denial include:

Lack of medical evidence: The insurance company may argue that there isn’t enough proof that your injury is work-related.

Failure to report the injury on time: If you didn’t report your injury within the required timeframe, your claim could be denied.

Dispute over the cause of the injury: The insurance company may claim that your injury was caused by activities outside of work, rather than your job duties.

If your claim is denied, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you appeal the decision. Your lawyer will gather additional evidence, such as medical records, expert testimony, and job duty descriptions, to strengthen your case. They’ll also represent you in hearings before the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation.

How a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help

Filing a workers’ compensation claim for a repetitive stress injury can be a complex process, especially if your employer or their insurance company disputes your claim. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can provide valuable assistance throughout the claims process, including:

Gathering Evidence: Your lawyer will collect medical records, job descriptions, and expert testimony to support your claim. This evidence will help prove that your repetitive stress injury was caused by your job duties.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts by denying injury claims or offering low settlements. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.

Appealing Denied Claims: If your claim is denied, your lawyer can guide you through the appeals process, helping you present a strong case for approval.

Maximizing Compensation: In addition to covering medical expenses and lost wages, you may be entitled to permanent disability benefits if your injury results in lasting impairment. Your lawyer will ensure that all forms of compensation are considered in your claim.

Were You Injured at Work? Contact Drazin & Warshaw to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you’ve developed a repetitive stress injury due to your job, don’t hesitate to seek the benefits you deserve. The experienced workers’ compensation lawyers at Drazin & Warshaw are here to help you navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you need for your recovery.

For a free consultation, call us at 732-333-8141 or fill out our online contact form. Let us fight for your rights after a workplace injury and ensure you receive the workers’ compensation benefits you’re entitled to.