Repetitive Stress Injuries
New York Repetitive Stress Injuries at Work Can Be Gradual, But Devastating
New Yorkers in every industry are vulnerable to suffering repetitive stress injuries (RSI), or continuous motion injuries. Some employees, and bosses, may think that only office workers or computer data entry workers get repetitive stress pain, but doctors and occupational therapists know that anyone whose work involves repeated movements can end up with chronic repetitive stress problems.
Workers who suffer repetitive stress injuries at the workplace deserve workers’ compensation benefits. But many initial claims for benefits are denied, and the appeals process is complicated. The workers’ compensation attorneys at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP can help.
RSI typically involves musculoskeletal pain, affecting ligaments, tendons, spinal discs, nerves and muscles. Symptoms can include stiff swollen joints, muscle aches, acute back pain, numbness, tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist tendonitis and what is known as “tennis elbow” (which can affect everyone from truckers and tunnel workers to nurses and administrative assistants).
Repetitive motion injury victims need an aggressive New York workers comp lawyer
One-third of all workplace injuries are related to musculoskeletal disorders. These injuries occur most often in the transportation, nursing and manufacturing professions, though it is an occupational disease that workers from numerous professions can develop over time:
- Computer keyboard typing and using a mouse
- Moving heavy objects
- Restaurant line cook
- Maid service and house cleaning
- Landscaping and gardening
- Digging, road work and underground projects
- Nurses lifting hospital patients
- Stocking warehouse inventory
- Construction site power tools
- Driving a company car, van, bus or train
- Heavy machinery operation
- Moving and stacking boxes
Filing a workers’ compensation claim
The claims process begins by telling your employer about your repetitive stress injury. We suggest making this notification in writing so there will be documentation. Your employer must report the injury to the insurance company and the Workers’ Compensation Board.
You then must fill out Form C-3, the Employee Claim form. For injuries that occur over a period of time, such as RSI, the deadlines to file a claim can vary depending on the circumstances, So, it’s recommended that you complete this form and submit it as soon as possible.
Be sure to get medical attention as soon as possible so you can get appropriate treatment for your repetitive stress injury. This may involve physical therapy, pain medication, occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Follow the treatment plan the doctor gives you.
Appealing a denied claim
What should you do if your claim for benefits is denied? One of our attorneys can guide you through the appeals process every step of the way. We start by investigating your injury to get the facts. We examine employment records and medical records and interview witnesses, and build a strong case for benefits.
Our lawyers can represent you at all hearings in front of the Workers’ Compensation Board and higher levels of appeal if necessary. Many times, we are able to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company that meets your needs. If needed, we can also fight for your benefits in court.
And if you are required to undergo an Independent Medical Examination, we can help you prepare. We’ll make sure has all the doctor has all the necessary information required to make a fair decision.
A Workers Compensation Settlement Can Help You Recover From RSI
Without powerful legal representation, it can be hard to convince workers comp insurance companies that your symptoms are not from a preexisting condition and that they are impacting your ability to do your job. When your workstation is not ergonomically correct-whether you work at an office desk, on a factory assembly line or on a construction site-the cumulative effect of making the same motion over and over, for days, weeks, months and years can turn into chronic, debilitating pain.
Our firm has been fighting for injured workers in New York for decades. We know the laws and what it takes to build a successful case for workers’ compensation benefits. And we are determined to help you get the best results possible.
Don’t suffer in silence. Call us toll-free at (800) 692-3717 or contact us online for a free evaluation. Every conversation is completely confidential and we serve RSI victims in New York, including Westchester, Kings County, Long Island and Staten Island and statewide.