Los Angeles Repetitive Stress Injuries Lawyer

The human hand consists of a complex network of over 100 ligaments and tendons. When we engage in activities like typing or texting, we often overlook the intricate movements of these tendons. However, after repetitive motions performed throughout the day, these movements can lead to dysfunction.

If left untreated, the symptoms that restrict movement can result in work absenteeism. Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) can affect various parts of the body that are excessively utilized during daily tasks, including muscles, nerves, ligaments, and tendons. Over time, you may begin to experience symptoms of an RSI whenever you perform the same activity:

• Tingling or numbness in the fingers, hands, or feet
• Tender or painful sensations ranging from a dull ache to throbbing pain
• Weakened strength or coordination
• Reduced flexibility
• Limited range of motion

Taking prompt action can potentially resolve the issue by incorporating regular stretching exercises and making adjustments to your work environment. By addressing these concerns early on, you may be able to alleviate the problem.

Repetitive Stress Injury and Workers Compensation

Workers’ claims and benefits for repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) can vary depending on the jurisdiction and workers’ compensation laws in place. However, here are some common types of claims and benefits that may be available for RSIs:

• Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation typically covers the cost of necessary medical treatments related to your RSI. This includes doctor visits, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, medications, and other medically necessary treatments.
• Wage Replacement: If your RSI prevents you from working or results in temporary disability, you may be eligible for wage replacement benefits. The amount you receive is usually a percentage of your pre-injury wages and is designed to partially compensate for lost income during your recovery period.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: In cases where your RSI results in permanent impairment or disability, you may be eligible for permanent disability benefits. These benefits provide compensation for the lasting effects of your RSI on your ability to work and perform daily activities. The specific amount of benefits will depend on the severity and impact of your disability.
• Rehabilitation Services: Workers’ compensation may cover vocational rehabilitation services, such as job retraining or assistance in finding alternative employment if your RSI prevents you from returning to your previous job.
• Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits: In some jurisdictions, if you are unable to return to your job due to your RSI and your employer does not offer suitable alternative work, you may be eligible for supplemental job displacement benefits. These benefits can help cover the costs of skill enhancement or retraining programs to help you find new employment.
• Settlements: In certain cases, you may have the option to negotiate a settlement with the workers’ compensation insurance company. This involves reaching an agreement on a lump sum payment that represents the full and final settlement of your RSI claim.

Common Repetitive Stress Injuries

Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) can affect various parts of the body due to repetitive motions and overuse. Here are some common types of RSIs:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a well-known RSI that affects the wrist and hand. It is diagnosed when the median nerve, which is found in the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed or irritated. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, weakness, and pain in the hand and fingers.
• Tendinitis: Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon, which connects muscle to bone. RSIs often cause tendinitis in areas such as the wrist, elbow (tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow), shoulder, or Achilles tendon. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint.
• Bursitis: Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. RSIs can lead to bursitis, commonly in the shoulder (subacromial bursitis) or the knee. It causes pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: This RSI affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendons and their sheaths become inflamed, causing pain and difficulty with thumb and wrist movements.
• Epicondylitis: Also known as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, this RSI involves inflammation of the tendons in the elbow. It causes pain, tenderness, and weakness in the affected arm.
• Trigger Finger: Trigger finger occurs when a finger gets stuck in a bent position and then suddenly straightens, causing a snapping or popping sensation. It is caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath in the finger.
• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: This RSI affects the tendons and muscles that surround the shoulder joint. Overuse or repetitive motions can lead to inflammation and pain in the shoulder.

These are just a few examples of common RSIs, but there are many other types that can occur in different parts of the body. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have an RSI to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How does Los Angeles Repetitive Stress Injuries Lawyer At Pacific Attorney Group Can Help Victims of Repetitive Stress Injuries?

Pacific Attorney Group can provide valuable assistance and support to victims of RSIs in the following ways:

• Legal Expertise: Pacific Attorney Group has extensive knowledge and expertise in handling RSI cases. We understand the legal complexities involved and can provide expert guidance throughout the entire process.
• Case Evaluation: The firm can assess the details of your RSI case to determine its validity and potential for success. We will review the evidence, medical documentation, and other relevant factors to determine the strength of your claim.
• Gathering Evidence: Pacific Attorney Group can assist in gathering and compiling the necessary evidence to support your RSI claim. This may include obtaining medical records, expert opinions, witness statements, and documentation of your work-related activities that contributed to the development of the injury.
• Building a Strong Case: Our firm will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf. We will leverage our expertise and resources to establish liability, proving that your RSI was caused by the negligence or misconduct of your employer or another party.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize compensation payouts. Pacific Attorney Group can handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
• Litigation Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, Pacific Attorney Group is prepared to take your case to court. We will provide skilled representation, presenting your case before a judge and jury, and fighting for your rights and fair compensation.
• Maximizing Compensation: The firm will strive to secure maximum compensation for your RSI claim. We will consider all relevant damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical needs, to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Book a consultation with Los Angeles repetitive stress injuries lawyer today so that we can assist you with your specific RSI claim.