Some injuries are clearly eligible for workers’ compensation coverage. An employee hurt by a piece of falling equipment or who comes into contact with heavy machinery could potentially incur immediate traumatic injuries.
In cases where there are on-the-job incidents that leave people hurt, most workers acknowledge that they may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, medical conditions related to employment don’t only occur after an incident on the job. People can also end up hurt due to exposure to dangerous substances or repetitive job functions.
Repetitive stress injuries, also known as repetitive strain injuries, can develop when professionals perform the same work repeatedly for years. People may develop painful symptoms in their hands, knees, hips or backs from lifting, typing or twisting.
Can workers’ compensation help with repetitive stress injuries?
Any work-related injury could qualify for benefits
The good news for workers coping with the limitations of a repetitive stress injury is that they might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Any medical condition that directly relates to someone’s employment can help them qualify for benefits even if they can’t point to a specific incident on the job that caused their condition.
A medical professional typically needs to affirm that the symptoms the patient presents have a direct relationship with their job responsibilities. They may need to recommend both treatment and changes to how they do their job.
In some cases, a thorough medical review may be necessary if there are disputes about the origins of the condition or the impact it may have on the worker. In most cases, repetitive stress injuries can lead to both medical benefits and disability benefits.
Workers can qualify for coverage that pays for all of their necessary treatment. They can also qualify for different types of disability benefits. They can receive temporary disability if they need a leave of absence to recover or undergo surgery. They may also qualify for permanent partial disability benefits if they have to change professions and don’t make as much money.
Particularly in cases where medical issues can alter someone’s long-term earning potential, workers’ compensation benefits can be of the utmost importance. Those who learn about the benefits available and the qualifications for coverage can pursue the support they need with greater confidence when a career causes medical challenges.