JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

When it comes to a Philadelphia workplace injury, one often thinks of the immediate, sudden accidents such as those in agricultural and manufacturing industries. However, repetitive strain injury (RSI) can be a dangerous result from overuse in an office or factory setting. RSI can impact an individual’s ability to work and can have a similar effect on their livelihood as sudden injuries.

Studies have shown that repetitive strain injuries often damage musculoskeletal and nervous systems and are the result of repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, prolonged exposure to vibrations, or sustained awkward positions. These injuries often involve the wrist, forearm, elbow, neck and hands.

Physicians have broken RSI into two main types: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 RSI is caused by repetitive tasks in most cases. Common examples of Type 1 RSI include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and tenosynovitis. Each of these injuries involve situations where the muscles and tendons swell. Type 2 RSI involves a feeling of pain, but no obvious swelling or inflammation. These injuries often do not fit into the description of Type 1 and can be referred to as “non-specific pain syndrome.”

Warning signs of RSI vary based on part of the body affected and what caused the injury specifically. The initial signs of RSI will go away when the individual rests and pain will often flare when the individual is doing the specific repetitive task that caused the injury in the first place. Over time, the symptoms will not subside and will be present at all times. These symptoms can include tenderness or pain in the affected muscle or joint, a throbbing or pulsating feeling in the affected area, tingling sensation, and/or loss of sensation or strength. Knowing the signs of RSI and taking steps to adjust behavior, as well as bringing it to your employer’s attention, can go a long way to help reduce your risk of workplace injury.

RSI should be treated as a serious workplace injury in Pennsylvania. If you suspect you have sustained a repetitive strain injury on the job in Philadelphia, contact the workers’ compensation law firm of Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo. We will discuss your specific situation and advise you what your next steps should be. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 888-807-WORK (9675).