Repetitive Strain Injuries

Injuries can occur through repetitive actions carried out in the workplace.

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Making a claim for a work-related upper limb disorder or a back injury

Work-related upper limb disorders (WRULD) is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of conditions affecting the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders and neck caused by working conditions or processes. They may also be referred to as repetitive strain injury (RSI), overuse syndrome or cumulative trauma disorder (CTD).

Back injuries are very common and often just occur naturally. However, in some instances activities at work can cause or contribute to back injuries including muscle sprains and strains, herniated discs and fractured vertebrae.

The aim in all compensation claims is to put the injured worker back in the position in which they would have been had the accident or injury not occurred, by securing adequate compensation.

If you are suffering from a work-related upper limb or back injury sustained at work and this was not your fault, you may be able to make a claim for compensation.

Contact our dedicated Industrial Disease team today on 01244 312306 or email them at law@oliverandco.co.uk for a free, no obligation chat.

Causes

People working in any industry can be at risk of developing a work-related upper limb disorder and back injuries as they are caused by the constant and repeated use of parts of the body. Possible causes can include:

Heavy lifting and twisting
Use of handheld tools
Typing and repetitive computer use
Prolonged periods of physical activity
Insufficient rotation of tasks and rest periods
Failure to warn about the weight of loads
Bad posture and/or poorly designed office chairs
Failure to provide lifting equipment and/or inadequate lifting equipment
Frequent bending and stooping

Repetitive work does not necessarily cause an upper limb disorder or back injury on its own, lack of proper training, inadequate equipment and poor ergonomics also play a significant part.

Symptoms

Symptoms of work-related upper limb disorders and back injuries will vary depending on the person and which part of their body is affected but they can include:

Pain in the affected area or referred pain where it is felt in another part of the body that is not injured (for example, leg pain radiating from an injured back)
Joint stiffness
Cramping
Tingling
Numbness
Swelling

Treatment

If you believe you may have a work-related upper limb disorder or back injury, you should speak to your employer straightaway as you may need to change your work environment or processes.

See a doctor who may advise you to use painkillers, hot or cold therapy on the affected limb or back or recommend a course of physiotherapy. It is important not to rest the affected limb for more than a few days as this could lead to it becoming weak and less flexible.

Most minor back injuries should resolve within around six weeks and are treated with pain relief, heat or cold treatments and staying as active as possible. A common myth with back injuries is that you should rest in bed, but this can actually lengthen recovery time.

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Repetitive Strain Injuries

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Making a claim for a work-related upper limb disorder or a back injury

Causes

Symptoms

Treatment

Key contacts

Lucy Metcalfe

James Cameron

Helena Cameron

Hannah Higson

Get in touch