A hands-on job may place stress and overexertion on your hands and arms. When the pain leads you to a doctor for help, you may have the makings of a workers’ compensation claim.
Workplace injuries can include a variety of longer-term damage caused by your job or working conditions. Take a look at gradual or repetitive use injuries.
What is a repetitive injury?
When your occupation necessitates similar movements day in and day out, it may pressure those over-used body parts. As the repetitive activity continues, you may experience worsening pain. A doctor visit may diagnose you with a work-related repetitive or overuse injury. Some of the most common include:
Carpal tunnel syndrome
The forearm muscles may swell as you go about your day on the job site. Working with power tools sends vibrations into the arm, causing the muscles to become inflamed. This exerts pressure on the nerve running into the hand. If your hand aches during your day, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome.
Tennis elbow
Using tools may also leave you with tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis. This painful condition, caused by the swelling of major tendons from the wrist up into the elbow, results from the repetitive motion of your arms when working.
Rotator cuff injury
The rotator cuff is vital and allows for the full range of motion of the shoulder. If you often work above your head, lifting or working with materials at a high height, you are more prone to strain and tear the muscles that protect the rotator cuff. Shoulder dislocation may occur, and the condition may require surgery.
If you suspect your job duties have caused damage to your body, seek a medical diagnosis. Once the doctor correlates your injury with your work, you may file for workers’ compensation benefits.