Do repetitive stress injuries require missing work to recover?

Does every workplace injury happen without warning? While many occur in this manner, not all injuries happen in such a way. Some develop slowly over time and are known as repetitive stress injuries. Colorado workers may begin to notice such problems and not think much of them at first. Eventually, things could worsen, making it impossible to work. When that happens, filing for workers’ compensation might become necessary.

Common repetitive stress injuries

A person that suffers lacerations from operating a power tool experiences immediate and obvious harm. What about someone who suffers ailments in the shoulders and back from working with these tools for years? That may reflect an example of a repetitive stress injury. The same might be true when office personnel begin to experience hand and wrist issues from years of typing. The problem may heal with rest, but it could make working impossible.

Generally, repetitive stress injuries impact the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissue. The amount of time it may take for the injury to manifest could vary from person to person. Regardless, the injury could have an impact on someone’s ability to earn a living.

Dealing with these stress injuries

The fingers, wrists, lower back, and more could suffer the strain of repetitive injuries. A thorough medical examination may reveal the severity and, hopefully, concludes with a helpful therapeutic recommendation. Rest might be necessary, leading some to miss work.

Filing for workers’ compensation benefits might not be as straightforward as expected. An employer could challenge the claim. After all, an injury must be work-related. If an employer suggests the injury didn’t occur because of work, those vital payments might not be forthcoming, and the assistance of an attorney might be necessary.

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