Examples of work-related repetitive stress injuries

Certain occupations require workers to perform the same physical activity over and over again during the course of a workday. As a result of continual strain on one or more body parts, a worker may suffer a repetitive stress injury.

People sometimes dismiss the seriousness of repetitive stress injuries because they do not occur as the result of a single occurrence or accident but rather develop over time. However, these injuries can be extremely painful and may impede an individual’s ability to work. Here are a few examples of common work-related repetitive stress injuries.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Working on a computer all day long could cause a person to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. The symptoms of this condition include acute pain in one or both wrists, intense stiffness, and limited mobility. Protective braces and ergonomically designed keyboards can greatly help people who are coping with this condition.

Rotator cuff tear

A job that involves a lot of heavy lifting or requires people to raise their arms over their head creates a considerable risk of rotator cuff injury. Construction workers, mechanics, and assembly line technicians are especially vulnerable to this debilitating injury. When a person tears a rotator cuff, he or she may need a corrective surgery and weeks or months of physical therapy to fully recover.

Bursitis

Workers who have to stay in the same position during the entirety of their workday may develop bursitis. Inflamed bursae can occur in a person’s elbows, hips, knees, or other areas. Treating bursitis may require surgery.