Not every on-the-job injury can be traced to a specific incident. Sometimes, we feel pain from doing the same thing every day. These injuries from repetitive motions are just as severe as a sudden event but may be more difficult to prove.
Can you still get worker’s comp if you can’t point to anything specific?
Wear and tear on the body
When you make the same motion repeatedly, it will eventually lead to wear and tear on your muscles, tendons and nerves. The condition develops gradually without you noticing until it suddenly becomes a significant problem. Common examples of repetitive injuries include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which is often associated with individuals engaged in typing or data entry
- Tendonitis, which is caused by overworking the tendons
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, which affects the tendons at the base of the thumb and the side of the wrist
- Chronic back pain from repetitive lifting, not using proper lifting techniques and poor posture
Florida’s workers’ comp laws do cover injuries from repetitive motions. But, without a specific event, there may be problems proving the injury was work-related. First, you need a clear diagnosis from your physician that you have a chronic condition and its connection to your workplace activities. Florida also imposes a statute of limitation, so you will need to file your claim as soon as you are aware of your injury.
Since repetitive injuries develop over time, your employer’s workers’ comp carrier may try to argue that your condition was caused by factors outside of work, such as a side gig, hobby, or a pre-existing condition. This is why it’s so crucial to document when, where, and what you do to show a correlation.
If you have difficulties filing an injury report or your claim becomes stalled, you will want someone on your side. Repetitive injuries often have long rehab therapy timelines, and you will need benefits to cover their expenses, along with your time away from work. An advocate can help ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to while recovering.