Unlike sudden workplace accidents, repetitive stress injuries develop slowly over weeks or months from doing the same motions over and over. This can make the injuries harder to prove when filing for workers’ compensation in California.
Spotting early warning signs and recording when they first started may help get your claim approved. Below are five common symptoms of repetitive stress injuries.
Persistent pain that won’t go away
You might feel a dull ache that stays even after rest. This pain often starts mild but worsens with certain movements—and even more when you repeat those movements.
The pain often feels dull and achy rather than sharp, and basic pain relievers provide only temporary relief.
Tingling and numbness in hands or wrists
You may notice pins-and-needles feelings or numbness in their fingers, hands or wrists. Carpal tunnel syndrome often starts this way before worsening and affecting your grip.
Decreased grip strength
Have you started dropping objects you normally hold without trouble? Decreased grip strength is usually a sign of repetitive stress injuries. This can also make it a struggle to open jars or turn doorknobs.
Swelling and inflammation in joints
Look for visible swelling around joints you use repeatedly at work. Your fingers, wrists, elbows or shoulders might appear puffy or feel warm to the touch.
Morning stiffness that gets better as you move around usually accompanies inflammation. This stiffness could affect your neck, shoulders, wrists or back.
Limited range of motion
You might notice difficulty performing movements that once felt easy. Common examples include:
- Difficulty rotating your wrist or forearm
- Reduced ability to raise arms overhead
- Stiffness when turning your neck
Limited flexibility can happen to any joints you regularly use to perform strenuous actions or position awkwardly while working.
Take action to protect your health and claim
Documenting these warning signs creates crucial evidence for your workers’ compensation claim. Tell your supervisor about your symptoms right away and ask for a medical evaluation.
Getting help not only strengthens your workers’ compensation claim but often stops minor injuries from becoming serious problems that could limit your ability to work and enjoy life.
