Repetitive Trauma: WHAT WORKERS COMPENSATION COVERS

Several workers putting themselves at risk of injury doing dangerous jobs.

Are you suffering from repetitive stress injuries because of your work? Did you know that you can claim workers compensation benefits for repetitive trauma? Indeed, under Florida law, repetitive trauma is compensable if it shows the following elements:

  • prolonged exposure
  • its cumulative effect results to an injury or aggravates a pre-existing condition
  • the job subjected the injured worker to a hazard greater than that to which the public is exposed

Unfortunately, most employers and insurance companies would use those same elements to deny your claim. And when they have a legal team behind them, you can expect an uphill battle. But don’t lose hope yet. Our expert and experienced worker’s compensation lawyer, Victor Malca, can help you get the benefits you rightfully deserve. Talk to us for a free consultation now.

Definition of Repetitive Trauma

Unlike other work-related injuries that are caused by a single workplace accident, repetitive trauma develops over time. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it refers to:

disorders due to repetitive motion or musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremity associated with workplace exposures to a combination of repetitive, forceful exertions and constrained or extreme postures.

It is an umbrella term for many different conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, tendonitis, bursitis, trigger finger and many more. More than half of all reported occupational illnesses in the US can be classified as repetitive trauma. This type of injury is also known as “repetitive motion injury” or “repetitive stress injury”.

There are no noticeable symptoms of early-onset repetitive stress injury. That is except when you’re holding a particular position or doing a certain motion. Symptoms at this stage usually range from tingling or numbness to dull aches. If not treated, the dull ache could turn to throbbing pain. You may also feel weakness, loss of coordination, and reduced mobility and flexibility.

Who Are Prone To Repetitive Trauma?

From its name, repetitive trauma is caused by recurring strain to a certain group of muscles. The constant strain may tear or damage the tissues. It also affects the surrounding nerves, ligaments, and tendons. Unnatural joint movements and prolonged constrained posture can cause repetitive trauma too.

This is why workers with routine and physically demanding jobs are prone to repetitive motion injury. They include:

  • electricians
  • meat packers
  • nurses
  • health care aids
  • stock clerks
  • grocery workers
  • musicians
  • plumbers and pipefitters
  • professional athletes
  • delivery workers
  • firefighters
  • agricultural workers
  • office clerks

Workers Compensation Benefits for Repetitive Trauma

In Florida, the workers compensation statutes provide that disablement or death caused by occupational illnesses shall be treated as that of an injury caused by accident. This includes workers compensation benefits for repetitive trauma.

Your employer should be able to provide you with medical benefits such as:

  • emergency medical treatment
  • hospitalization
  • medical supplies
  • orthoses
  • prostheses
  • remedial treatments

You can claim for lost wages compensation too. The amount of which depends on how the injury affected your ability to work or find gainful employment. There are four disability benefits you can apply for:

  • Temporary Partial Disability
  • Permanent Partial Disability
  • Temporary Total Disability
  • Permanent Total Disability
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How We Can Help

Victor Malca Law, P.A. is one of the most trusted workers compensation law firm in Florida. This reputation came with more than 23 years of experience in defending the rights of injured workers. We have successfully helped thousands of employees claim the workers compensation benefits they rightfully deserve.

Our satisfied clients can attest that we don’t quit until their case is won. From helping you gather the necessary documents, negotiating with your employer and representing your case in court, we got your back. Email us at info@victormalcalaw.com or call us at (954) 474-0556 for a free consultation.