How Does Workers’ Compensation Handle Repetitive Stress Injuries?

In the workplaces of Mobile, Alabama, and across the United States, a silent epidemic of repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) is taking its toll on workers, affecting millions of employees each year. These insidious conditions, also known as cumulative trauma disorders or overuse injuries, can develop over time due to repeated physical movements that damage tendons, nerves, muscles, or ligaments, with carpal tunnel syndrome being a common example among employees who perform significant computer or typing work.  

Workers’ compensation in Alabama generally covers RSIs, but proving these injuries can be challenging as they often appear gradually rather than resulting from a single, identifiable incident. Understanding the complexities of RSI claims is important for affected workers, as navigating the workers’ compensation process for these injuries may require the guidance of experienced legal professionals to ensure fair treatment and adequate benefits. 

Understanding Repetitive Stress Injuries 

Repetitive stress injuries, or RSIs, are a group of conditions that result from prolonged repetitive motions, awkward postures, or overexertion. Unlike acute injuries that occur from a single incident, RSIs develop gradually over time, making them particularly challenging to address in the workers’ compensation system. 

Common types of RSIs include: 

• Carpal tunnel syndrome 

• Tendonitis 

• Bursitis 

• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) 

• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) 

• Trigger finger 

• De Quervain’s tenosynovitis 

• Rotator cuff syndrome 

These conditions often affect workers in industries that are prevalent in Mobile, AL, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and office work. The shipbuilding industry, a significant employer in the area, is particularly prone to RSIs due to the repetitive nature of many tasks involved. 

Causes and Risk Factors 

RSIs typically result from a combination of factors: 

• Repetitive motions 

• Forceful exertions 

• Awkward postures 

• Vibration exposure 

• Lack of adequate rest periods 

In Mobile’s diverse economy, workers in various sectors face these risk factors daily. From data entry specialists typing for hours on end to assembly line workers in the aerospace industry, the potential for developing an RSI is ever-present. 

Symptoms and Progression    

The symptoms of RSIs often start subtly and worsen over time. Workers might experience: 

• Pain or aching 

• Stiffness 

• Numbness or tingling 

• Weakness 

• Reduced range of motion 

As these symptoms progress, they can significantly impact a worker’s ability to perform their job duties and even affect their quality of life outside of work. 

Workers’ Compensation Coverage for RSIs  

In Alabama, as in most states, workers’ comp does cover repetitive stress injuries. However, the process of claiming benefits for an RSI can be more complex than for acute injuries. 

Eligibility Criteria 

To be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Mobile, AL, an employee must prove that their RSI is work-related. This means demonstrating that the condition arose out of and in the course of employment. For RSIs, this can be challenging, as the injury develops over time and may have contributing factors outside of work. 

Differences from Acute Injury Claims 

Unlike acute injuries, where the cause and onset are usually clear, RSIs pose unique challenges: 

• Pinpointing the exact cause can be difficult. 

• The date of injury is often unclear. 

• Employers may argue that non-work activities contributed to the condition. 

Statute of Limitations 

In Mobile, AL, workers generally have two years from the date of injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, for RSIs, determining the “date of injury” can be tricky. It’s often considered the date when the worker first became aware of the condition and its relation to their work. 

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for RSI   

If you’re a worker in Mobile suffering from an RSI, here’s what you need to know about filing a claim: 

Documenting the Injury 

Thorough documentation is crucial. Keep detailed records of: 

• When symptoms first appeared. 

• How symptoms progressed. 

• Work tasks that seem to exacerbate the condition. 

• Medical treatments sought. 

Medical Evidence and Expert Opinions 

Strong medical evidence is the cornerstone of a successful RSI claim. Seek treatment from a qualified healthcare provider who can: 

• Diagnose your condition. 

• Provide an opinion on work-relatedness. 

• Recommend appropriate treatment. 

In complex cases, an occupational medicine specialist or ergonomist might be consulted to provide expert testimony. 

Reporting Procedures 

In Alabama, you should report your injury to your employer as soon as you become aware of it. Your employer then has a responsibility to file a First Report of Injury with the Alabama Department of Labor. 

Potential Challenges 

Be prepared for potential pushback. Employers or insurance companies might argue that: 

• The condition is due to a pre-existing condition. 

• Non-work activities are the primary cause. 

• The injury doesn’t meet the legal definition of an occupational disease. 

Benefits Available for RSI Claims  

If your RSI claim is accepted, you may be eligible for several types of benefits: 

Medical Treatment Coverage 

Workers’ compensation should cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your RSI. This may include: 

• Doctor visits 

• Physical therapy 

• Medications 

• Surgeries, if required 

Temporary Disability Benefits 

If your RSI prevents you from working, you may be entitled to temporary disability benefits. In Alabama, these are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state maximums. 

Permanent Disability Considerations 

For RSIs that result in permanent impairment, you may be eligible for permanent partial or total disability benefits. The amount depends on the severity of your condition and its impact on your earning capacity. 

Vocational Rehabilitation Services 

If your RSI prevents you from returning to your previous job, workers’ compensation may provide vocational rehabilitation services to help you find new employment. 

Get Help for Your Repetitive Stress Injury 

Navigating a workers’ comp claim for a repetitive stress injury in Mobile, AL, can be a complex process. It requires a thorough understanding of both the medical and legal aspects of your condition. While the system can be challenging, remember that you have rights as a worker. 

If you’re struggling with an RSI and considering filing for workers’ comp, it’s important to have strong legal representation. At Thiry & Caddell, LLP, we have extensive experience in handling complex workers’ compensation claims, and we are committed to helping you recover the level of benefits that you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and case assessment.