Repetitive strain injuries (RSI), is a type of workplace injury that is often not seen as serious. However, it can have a huge impact on one’s life and is important to be aware of. These injuries are also repetitive motion injuries, repetitive motion disorder, cumulative trauma disorder, occupational overuse syndrome and regional musculoskeletal disorder.
Though it comes with many names, these injuries all occur when one consistently repeats a task that puts a strain on one part of the body. RSIs can include conditions like tendonitis, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and Raynaud’s disease.
Nearly every job has a repeated motion that you do every day. However, some of this repetition can lead to an RSI. Here are a few examples of workers who may be vulnerable to this type of injury:
- Deli workers consistently using meat cutters
- Office workers using a keyboard and computer mouse
- Warehouse workers consistently bending, picking up and carrying heavy boxes
- Computer workers staring at screens for long periods of the day
- Truck drivers in awkward sitting positions, driving and climbing into the cab
- Construction workers using jackhammers
- Lawn care and snow removal workers operating in cold temperatures
RSIs can lead to many different types of injuries which can be temporary or permanent and lead to pain and difficulties from these symptoms:
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Nerve compression and damage
- Muscle spasms
- Disfigurement
- Blood vessel damage
- Tendon damage
- Cellular degeneration
Though not every state covers repetitive strain injuries with worker’s compensation, but fortunately, Illinois does. It’s important to pay attention to the pain that can accompany RSIs because it develops over time. Be aware of how your job puts you at risk for an RSI and get help for it as soon as you can.
