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Repetitive Strain Injury Claims
Repetitive Strain Injury Claims
The term ‘musculoskeletal disorder’ is used to describe a number of upper limb disorders such as tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis. Many of these conditions are known as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). Talk to us about RSI claims.
If you have suffered any sort of repetitive strain injury as a result of your working conditions, you may be eligible to claim compensation. If you wish to make a claim, you should discuss your case with a personal injury solicitor who can assess the validity of your case.
Make a claim now by calling 0333 358 2345 or contacting us online.
About Repetitive Strain Injury
Repetitive Strain Injury is the term applied to disorders that occur due to the prolonged and repetitive use of specific parts of the body to complete repetitive movements. The symptoms of RSI include pain, swelling, numbness, weakness and a loss of dexterity. Symptoms don’t necessarily occur immediately after strenuous activity. Instead, it may often take hours or days before these symptoms begin to set in and not everyone will necessarily experience all of these symptoms.
The problem is increasing due to the intensive use of computers and other forms of technology that involve large amounts of keyboarding. Posture-related health problems are also growing due to the sedentary nature of many jobs nowadays.
What Causes Repetitive Strain Injury?
Repetitive Strain Injury usually occurs due to carrying out repetitive actions. Such actions will differ depending upon the work environment however some of the most common types of repetitive actions are:
- Those that involve production line work, such as rapid product assembling or packaging
- Using a computer keyboard consistently throughout the day for tasks like data entry
- Gardening
Both of these activities involve the limbs being in a fixed position for too long whilst they are supported incorrectly. This causes continuous muscle contraction which can cause Repetitive Strain Injury.
While there are many other causes of the condition, there are certain factors that may exacerbate the seriousness of the condition or make the development of this condition more likely. For example, if you are working in cold temperatures, working without a break, using a badly designed chair or a desk that results in poor posture and vibrating equipment then the condition or the likelihood of developing the condition may be intensified.
Most Common Repetitive Strain Injuries
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
If you have pain and weakness in the hand and forearm, then this could be caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition is usually caused by highly repetitive manual acts like grasping items by the hands. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is most common amongst factory line workers.
De Quervain’s Syndrome
De Quervain’s Syndrome is most commonly suffered by office workers using a computer. It involves pain and swelling within the wrist, usually at the bottom of the thumb joint.
Trigger Finger
This is a problem commonly associated with workers who are using machines that involve prolonged grip, such as industrial drills or chainsaws. The injury involves pain in the fingers or thumb that makes it difficult to straighten them.
What should I do if I experience RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury)
Whilst there is no official cure for RSI, your doctor may be able to treat specific conditions, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, with treatments like steroid injections, surgery or physiotherapy. Regular resting of the injured limb is also recommended by doctors. However, resting for long periods of time can cause the muscles in that area to weaken. To avoid weakening and to encourage circulation, gently massage and flex the affected area.
How to Prevent it
If you work at a desk, you should arrange your equipment correctly so that it can most comfortably accommodate you. For example, if your hands tend to hurt or cramp from having your keyboard lie flat, you could potentially use a slanted board to elevate your keyboard. When sitting, you should place both feet on the floor and position your screen at eye level while arranging objects that you frequently use within easy reach. Short, regular breaks from repetitive activity, such as a walk to the photocopier to allow muscles to relax and help prevent limbs from becoming tense are also recommended.
Amount of Compensation for RSI Claims
Personal injury compensation is decided upon the individual circumstances of how the injuries have impacted upon the individual. Compensation will take into account the pain and suffering caused by the injuries, as well as any loss of amenity/function that has occurred. Compensation will also take into account any financial losses that have occurred as a result of your injuries, such as if you have been unable to work and this has caused a loss of income.
Level of Repetitive Strain Injury |
Expected compensation |
| Complete recovery in a matter of weeks | Around £1,575 |
| Complete recovery within a few months | Up to £2,300 |
| Pain that lasts 2-3 years | £6,175 – £7,700 |
| One side of the body affected and ongoing, intermittent pain | £10,600 up to £11,700 |
| Bilateral incapacity resulting in surgery and possible loss of employment | £15,650 |
The amount of compensation that you are awarded will be determined by two categories: general damages and special damages.
RSI Claims General Damages
General damages refer to the physical and emotional damage caused by your injuries. In the simplest terms, it refers to compensation for pain and suffering. This type of compensation also covers any losses of amenity. Compensation will be awarded based upon the severity of these factors, understanding that the higher the severity of your complications, the worse the pain/suffering is. To view estimates for personal injury types, visit our compensation calculator.
RSI Claims Special Damages
Special damages compensation refers to compensation that covers the financial losses and expenses incurred as a result of an accident or medical negligence. Special damages could help to reclaim a loss of income if you have been unable to work due to your injuries. Similarly, if you have had to pay to go a medical appointment or if you had to pay to travel to a medical appointment, you could be able to claim these medical costs back.
Making RSI claims with Personal Injury Claims
You may be entitled to compensation for a range of compensation claims under accident claims. Our experts will help assess your potential claim going forwards and provide you with proficient advice.
Contact First Personal Injury to discuss your potential compensation claim today by ringing 0333 358 2345 or by filling out the online claims form.
Contact our specialist team to begin the claims process, either by phone on 0333 358 2345 or through our online form.