Many work-related injuries are not caused by one accident or event. They sneak up on people after months or even years of muscle strain or wear and tear on specific parts of the body that a worker uses every day – often in repetitive movements.
When injuries occur over time like this, it’s called cumulative trauma (CT) or sometimes cumulative trauma disorder (CTD). CT injuries are often musculoskeletal. That means they affect muscles, tendons or nerve tissue. These injuries can be extremely painful and debilitating.
Who is most likely to suffer from CT injuries?
As noted, people often suffer CT injuries if their work involves repetitive movements – particularly forceful ones, those done in an unnatural or awkward position or high-speed movements. Those who work with power drills that cause vibrations in the body are also susceptible to these injuries. Still, CT injuries can be caused by anything from painting to preparing packages for shipment at a warehouse to typing on a computer all day.
The California Workers’ Compensation Institute (CWCI) found that people who work in manufacturing and food services are particularly prone to CT injuries. They’re also especially common in younger workers (those under 30) and workers who earn under $600 weekly.
Why getting workers’ comp for CT injuries can be challenging
Workers with CT injuries caused by work-related tasks generally qualify for workers’ compensation. However, it can be more difficult to prove that a CT injury is work-related and not caused by activities outside of work than an injury that is the result of a single event, particularly one witnessed by others and reported immediately.
That’s why anyone who is having difficulty getting their workers’ comp claim approved is smart to get legal guidance to help them provide the documentation and other evidence they need to make their case. This can make all the difference in getting the workers’ comp benefits they are due.