Repetitive use injuries, also known as overuse injuries, can have a significant impact on a worker’s health and ability to perform their job. These injuries are often caused by repeated motions or prolonged use of certain tools and equipment. At EMD Law, we specialize in helping workers secure the benefits they deserve for both traumatic injuries and repetitive use injuries, provided they are supported by a medical doctor.
What is a Repetitive Use Injury?
Repetitive use injuries occur when a part of the body is subjected to repeated stress or strain over an extended period. These injuries can affect muscles, tendons, nerves and joints, leading to conditions such as tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis. The key factor in these injuries is the repetitive nature of the task or motion involved.
Common Causes of Repetitive Use Injuries
Repetitive use injuries can arise in various occupations and are often associated with the use of specific tools and equipment. Some common causes include:
Operation of Vibratory Tools
Tools like jackhammers, impact hammers and impact drills, which are powered by electricity, gas or compressed air, can cause significant strain on the hands and arms over time. For example, a construction worker using an impact hammer daily may develop vascular injuries in the hand, requiring surgery and potentially leading to permanent loss of function.
Overuse of Joints
Repetitive tasks that involve continuous use of a particular joint can lead to overuse injuries. For instance, a laborer who frequently digs with a shovel might develop shoulder injuries due to the constant strain.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This common repetitive use injury can result from activities that involve prolonged gripping or repetitive hand movements. Truck drivers gripping a steering wheel, construction workers using a jackhammer, or office workers operating a keyboard are all at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Examples of Repetitive Use Injury Cases
To illustrate the impact of repetitive use injuries, here are a few cases handled by our firm:
Impact Hammer Case
A construction worker who used an impact hammer daily suffered a vascular injury to his hand. The repetitive motion and vibration from the tool caused significant damage, requiring surgery and resulting in permanent loss of hand function.
Carpet Installer Case
A carpet installer with 20 years of experience developed bilateral arthritis and cartilage breakdown in his knees. The daily use of a carpet stretcher, which involves pushing the tool with the knee, led to severe arthritis, ultimately necessitating total knee replacement surgery.
Tile and Floor Installer Case
Tile, floor, and carpet installers often work on their knees, which can lead to severe arthritis over time. These workers are at high risk of developing significant knee issues, potentially requiring extensive medical intervention.
The Value of Repetitive Use Injury Cases
Repetitive use injury cases, particularly for journeyman contractors, can be valuable due to their high wages and potential for large payouts. Securing compensation for these injuries can help cover lost wages and medical expenses, providing essential financial support during recovery. At EMD Law, we are dedicated to helping injured workers who have had their payments denied, reduced or terminated.
Seeking Legal Help
If you are suffering from a repetitive use injury and are facing issues with your workers’ compensation payments, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no fee unless we recover benefits for you.
Repetitive use injuries can have a profound impact on your ability to work and your overall quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing issues with workers’ compensation benefits due to a repetitive use injury, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Albany, New York. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the full benefits you are entitled to. Take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve and schedule your FREE consultation today.