If you spend most of your workday typing, lifting, or repeating motions, your body may eventually feel it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 946,000 cases of days away from work in the private industry in 2023 and 2024 were due to exertion, repetitive motion, and similar conditions. Workers’ comp doctors describe the effects of repetitive strain injuries as ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, so what are your options?
Here is everything you need to know about managing repetitive strain injuries at work. You can also explore our network of workers’ compensation doctors for local care providers.
Who Is at Risk of Repetitive Strain Injuries?
Repetitive strains can be debilitating. They may start as mild soreness and progress to sharp, persistent discomfort that interferes with daily life. Workers commonly affected by repetitive strain-related injuries may include:
- Office employees: Hours of typing and mouse use can lead to tendinitis in wrists and forearms.
- Construction workers: Heavy, repeated lifting often strains the shoulders, back, and knees.
- Healthcare providers: Patient transfers and prolonged standing may strain the back, neck, and hips.
- Assembly line workers: Continuous, identical hand and arm movements spark inflammation.
According to a CDC survey, of the 9% of U.S. adults who reported a repetitive strain injury over the course of three months in 2021, over 44% had to limit their usual activities for at least 24 hours. Repetitive strain injuries arise when repeated movements and sustained awkward positions damage muscles, tendons, and nerves. Unlike a sudden workplace accident, this damage tends to build up gradually, often until the pain is impossible to ignore.
How Workers’ Compensation Doctors Can Help With Workplace Injury Pain Management
The National Safety Council estimates that work-related musculoskeletal disorders cost employers nearly $18 billion each year in lost productivity, workers’ compensation, absenteeism, and related employer costs. This figure underscores the prevalence of work injuries across industries, and employees need to know their options. Since workplace injury pain management typically begins with a thorough evaluation, the first step is finding the right doctor.
It helps to have a workers’ comp doctor who is trained not only to treat workplace injuries but also to navigate the documentation and reporting requirements. For repetitive injuries, these doctors can often recommend a multipronged approach. You may need a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, splints, and pain relievers to restore function and prevent the injury from getting worse.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Repetitive Strain Injuries
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 2.3 nonfatal injury cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers in 2024. That figure includes repetitive strain injuries, for which surgery is rarely the first recommendation. Many people respond well to conservative treatment options for repetitive strains.
Some potential options for non-surgical pain relief for workplace accidents may include physical or occupational therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Your doctor may also recommend ergonomic changes at your workstation, modified duties while you heal, and a gradual return-to-work plan.
Rehabilitation for work-related injuries is especially important when pain has been present for a while. The idea is to reduce inflammation, strengthen the supporting muscles, and retrain the body to move safely. That way, you avoid re-injury and counter any chronic pain.
Find a Workers’ Comp Doctor and Get the Care You Need Today
Qualified workers’ compensation doctors understand the documentation, reporting timelines, and treatment protocols required to ensure proper diagnoses, covered treatments, and supported recoveries. A referral network like Workers’ Comp Doctors can connect you with the right provider for pain management for work injuries.
Call Workers’ Comp Doctors today at (888) 533-0870 for help in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Massachusetts. Doctors listed in our directory accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
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Here are common questions about repetitive strain injuries and workers’ compensation.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of a Repetitive Strain Injury?
Repetitive strain injuries often bring aching, stiffness, throbbing, or tingling. Symptoms may worsen with continued activity, even after long periods of rest.
Can I File a Workers’ Comp Claim for a Repetitive Strain Injury?
Yes. You can typically file a workers’ compensation claim for repetitive strain injuries if a qualified medical provider documents the condition as work-related.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Work-Related Repetitive Strain Injuries?
Your recovery time from work-related strain injuries will depend on the severity, location, and treatment. Workers’ comp doctors emphasize the importance of following rehabilitation plans consistently to speed up recovery.