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What Are Repetitive Stress Injuries?

On Behalf of | Jun 14, 2021 | Workplace Injuries |

As a worker, you face exposure to numerous different dangers at the workplace. Many of these are avoidable, and some are more serious than others. But often times, the most common of dangers go overlooked.

For example, you have the risk of repetitive stress injuries (RSIs), also known as repetitive strain injuries. These injuries are a risk every worker faces, and yet it gest a disproportionately small amount of media coverage.

What is repetitive stress?

Healthline examines the impact of repetitive strain injuries. RSIs can occur in any job where you use repetitive motions. In other words, if you do the same thing every day, you are also at risk for an RSI.

These injuries often develop faster in workers who use their hands frequently. Examples include nail technicians, assembly line workers, cashiers and receptionists. But anyone who does the same thing repeatedly over their shift, day after day, could also develop an RSI.

How do RSIs develop?

The rate of development differs from person to person. One worker could spend years on the job without developing an RSI, while their coworker may develop one within months while doing the same tasks. The development of RSIs depend on several factors, including your body’s structure and personal health. It is thus hard to predict when and how and RSI will strike.

They have the potential to seriously interfere with your life, though. RSI sufferers often have to go weeks or even months without work because the only way to heal an RSI is through rest. Refusing to rest and “pushing through” will only worsen the injury until it requires surgery.

This is why many workers seek financial compensation for lost work time due to the injuries their work caused. Consider contacting legal help to learn more about your options.