A task performed frequently and forcefully increases the risk of workers sustaining injuries. Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) result from repeated motions throughout the day in poorly designed work environments.
Per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 1.8 million workers suffer from RSI each year. Untreated RSI symptoms can cause severe discomfort, impacting workers’ productivity and overall health.
Repetitive work can leave permanent damage
Some workers are at high risk for RSI due to the nature of their jobs. If they ignore the signs and continue to work, the following injuries may cause lasting damage:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome: Office workers use their computers all day, flexing, extending and placing pressure on the wrist, which leads to pain, numbness and tingling in their hands and arms.
- Tendonitis: Construction workers often utilize their shoulders, elbows and knees in heavy lifting and other strenuous duties for prolonged hours, resulting in tendon inflammation.
- Back pain: Doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals tend to overexert themselves at work, standing and lifting their patients, which can hurt their back enough to cause disc herniation and muscle sprains.
- Rotator cuff injuries: Assembly line workers work for hours on end, leading to continued wear and tear in the shoulder’s rotator cuff.
- Lateral epicondylitis: When restaurant chefs, servers and cleaners overuse their forearm muscles when gripping or twisting tools, they may experience soreness and stiffness in their elbow.
The OSHA reminds employers of their duty to maintain a safe workplace. The agency emphasizes the value of employer support. Thus, companies can show their commitment by implementing ergonomic processes to reduce the quantity and severity of occupational injuries.
Work to live, not the other way around
Workers should not have to sacrifice their health to provide for themselves and their loved ones. However, their jobs can take a toll on their bodies without proper rest, equipment and workflow systems. If they eventually suffer from RSI, they can file a workers’ compensation claim. A Georgia legal team can help them gather proof to establish their case and recover financial relief for their medical needs.
