One myth regarding workers’ compensation benefits is that only physical injuries are covered by workers’ compensation. However, that is not accurate in New Jersey. Experiencing an injury due to a traumatic fall or machine malfunction is not the only way to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Repetitive Motion and Stress Injuries may qualify for workers’ comp benefits, too. A workers’ compensation lawyer with offices throughout New Jersey can help you overcome barriers that may prevent you from obtaining compensation for repetitive motion or stress injuries.
Types of Jobs That May Cause Repetitive Motion or Stress Injuries
Repetitive stress injuries can result from many job-related tasks. Working at a keyboard or performing repetitive motions of the wrist, hands, or fingers may cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Office workers and individuals who work for long periods of time on a computer keyboard can develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, “carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel—a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand—houses the median nerve and the tendons that bend the fingers. The median nerve provides feeling to the palm side of the thumb and to the index, middle, and part of the ring fingers (although not the little finger). It also controls some small muscles at the base of the thumb.” Often people think carpal tunnel syndrome is a minor ailment, but it can cause extreme and constant pain, burning, and tingling in the hands and wrists resulting in lost time at work.
Continuously, picking up or lifting heavy loads or materials can cause damage to one’s lower back or leg. A repetitive motion to accomplish a task can cause the body to wear down and result in chronic health problems.
Occupations that require continuous standing or sitting may also cause stress injuries. These jobs require static posture, and may include the following occupations:
- Painters
- Carpenters and Construction Workers
- Plumbers
- Drivers and Transpiration workers
- Writers
- Assembly Line workers
- Seamstresses
Workers who are experiencing repetitive motion or stress injuries should visit a physician who can give them a complete medical examination and document that the illness is due to work and no other medical problems.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Repetitive Motion or Stress Injuries
A workers’ compensation lawyer will examine your case and help you receive the compensation to which you are entitled for your injuries. Repetitive stress injuries may qualify for the following benefits:
- Coverage of medical expenses
- Short-term or long-term impairment
- Weekly pay
- Therapy and rehabilitation treatment
Seek Legal Help from a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in New Jersey
Many employees do not know that they can get workers’ compensation benefits for repetitive motion work-related injuries. Contact Schibell Law, with law offices across New Jersey and learn the facts and your rights.
The workers’ compensation lawyers at Schibell Law will be with you every step of the way until you get the compensation you deserve. We offer a workers’ compensation case review, and we receive no payment unless we recover compensation for you. Call 732-774-1000 for more information or to set up a free case evaluation.
