Office or retail jobs can result in injuries from repetition

Quite a few people fall into the mental trap of thinking of certain jobs as dangerous and other jobs as inherently safe. While it is true that there are some kinds of work that leave you at greater risk for injury or fatal workplace accidents, any job you work could theoretically put you at risk for injury or occupational illness.

Jobs that people often think of as inherently safe, such as office work or customer service jobs, could be a major source of risk, particularly for those who stay in the same position for many years. Repetitive motion injuries, in particular, are a risk for anyone who performs the same job day after day, month after month.

What are repetitive motion injuries?

Also known as repetitive strain or stress injuries, repetitive motion injuries involve physiological damage that results from performing the same task over and over. Our bodies are incredible machines, but even the most well-maintained and well-designed machine will experience wear and tear.

Whether you have to type for hours every day or find yourself lifting, twisting or gripping things for much of your shift, the potential exists for damage to the muscles, bones and connective tissues at the area where you repetitively move.

How can you treat repetitive motion injuries?

There have been advances in medical science that help people who deal with injuries from their jobs. From improved pain management options to better steroids and physical therapy, there are a host of treatments that can reduce pain, increase strength and improve range of motion after a repetitive motion injury.

However, in most cases, the only sure way to reduce or eliminate such harm is to rest and avoid repetitive motions in the future. For some people, it may be possible to work with an employer to change their responsibilities so that they don’t have to do the same task all day, every day. For others, a complete change of career may be the only solution.

Unfortunately, that could mean drastically reduced earning potential for those who can’t continue their intended career. On the positive side of things, workers’ compensation benefits can help protect you from the financial repercussions of reduced work ability after a repetitive motion injury.

Medical benefits and disability benefits can help you cope

Filing a claim for workers’ compensation medical benefits will ensure that you receive the care you need to recover from your injury. From physical and occupational therapy to corrective surgery, the medical benefits available through North Carolina workers’ compensation can cover the costs associated with your repetitive motion injury.

If you have to take a break from work entirely, temporary disability benefits can defray the cost of losing your income. For those who do not fully recover after repetitive motion injuries, permanent partial disability benefits could also reduce the financial impact of changing careers later in life by paying you a portion of the difference in your wages now versus before your injury. Contact a Charlotte workers compensation lawyer for help today.