If you work in one of the five boroughs of New York City, you may be at risk of developing a repetitive motion injury. Repetitive motion injuries occur when you do something over and over again, like typing, lifting, etc. The most common repetitive motion injuries are carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis and trigger finger. But, what is a repetitive motion injury and why does it matter?
Are they really that serious?
Yes. Repetitive motion injuries can seriously affect your quality of life and your ability to work. Repetitive motion injuries often limit your range of motion, reduce productivity and interfere with your everyday life. They often lead to chronic conditions that require rehabilitation and surgery, and in some cases, your repetitive motion injury could permanently disable you.
Why do they matter?
Not only do they matter because of their physical impact on you, but also because they can be the basis of a workers’ compensation benefits claim. This can cover your medical expenses, lost wages and disability benefits. However, obtaining benefits for a repetitive motion injury can be challenging because unlike other types of work-related injuries, repetitive motion injuries are not caused by a single event, but by cumulative stress over time. This can make it difficult to prove that your injury is work-related.
What do I need to prove?
To successfully claim workers’ compensation for a repetitive motion injury, you will need to provide evidence that your injury is directly related to your work duties. You will also need to prove that the repetitive motion injury has affected your ability to work.
You will also need to follow the proper procedures and deadlines for filing your claim in New York City. You will need to notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible, seek medical attention from an authorized provider and complete the necessary forms and documents. You also have to deal with insurance companies that may try to deny or reduce your benefits.