What is a Repetitive Stress Injury?
An acute injury is one that happened in a single, specific, identifiable accident. In contrast, a repetitive stress injury (RSI) is one that happens gradually over an extended period of time due to repeated movements. RSIs are often associated with the workplace. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we have the expertise to take on these cases. Reach out to a Franklin County workers’ compensation attorney if you have suffered a repetitive stress injury in Pennsylvania.
Most Common Types of Repetitive Stress Injuries
Repetitive stress injuries develop slowly due to accumulated strain. Pennsylvania workers experience these injuries across many industries. Here is an overview of some of the most common examples of work-related RSIs:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist. Repetitive hand motions, keyboard use, assembly line work, and tool vibration increase the risk.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis occurs when tendons become inflamed after repeated overuse. Shoulder, elbow, and wrist tendons are common sites. Workers who lift, reach, or use tools in fixed positions face an elevated risk of developing this type of repetitive strain injury.
- Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow or Golfer’s Elbow): Epicondylitis affects the tendons that attach to the elbow. Repetitive gripping, twisting, and lifting motions provoke microscopic tendon tears. Workers in construction, food service, and manufacturing may all develop this type of medical condition.
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: Repetitive overhead motions place strain on the tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Warehouse workers, electricians, nurses, and painters face an elevated risk. Rotator cuff strains or tears cause weakness, night pain, and reduced overhead reach.
- Bursitis: Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled bursae become inflamed. Kneeling, leaning, and repetitive pressure on joints increase the risk. Workers may develop bursitis in the knee, shoulder, or hip. Symptoms include localized swelling, warmth, and pain.
Repetitive Stress Injuries Can Qualify for No-Fault Workers’ Comp Benefits in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry emphasizes that workers’ compensation benefits are available on a no-fault basis in the Commonwealth. Pennsylvania workers’ comp law recognizes repetitive stress injuries as compensable occupational injuries. You do not need to prove employer negligence. You must prove that work duties caused or aggravated the condition. This requires medical documentation that links the RSI to your job tasks. Physicians must confirm causation under Pennsylvania’s medical-opinion standard. The insurer may request an independent medical examination, and your attorney can challenge any disputed findings. If accepted, benefits include medical coverage and wage loss for periods of disability. Unfortunately, many employers and insurers try to deny coverage for repetitive stress injuries.
Call Our Franklin County Work Injury Lawyer Today
At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Chambersburg workers’ comp attorneys handle the full range of repetitive stress injury claims. It is our mission to help workers get the maximum benefits. If you or your loved one suffered a repetitive stress injury at work, we can help. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free, no-obligation case review. We represent injured workers throughout Franklin County, including in Chambersburg, Waynesboro, and Greencastle.