Workers have to deal with numerous physical threads while on the job at times. However, one of the most common types of injury is one that almost any worker can face.
These injuries, called repetitive strain injuries, pose a threat in a wide variety of jobs. But why?
Who can suffer from an RSI?
Cleveland Clinic discusses repetitive strain injuries or RSIs. These injuries occur when a person makes a repetitive motion with the same part of their body over a period of time, usually weeks or months.
It is a major occupational risk and injury in jobs that require repetitive motions, which are quite a few. Jobs that involve constant use of the hands have high rates of RSIs in particular. This can include masseuses, physical therapists, doctors, surgeons, artists and more.
However, anyone who does repetitive motion at work is at risk, which is a huge swath of people. Cashiers, mechanics, chefs, janitors, assembly line workers, secretaries, teachers and many more will perform repeated tasks daily.
Why are RSIs a big issue?
The main problem with an RSI is how it heals. RSIs can take anywhere from weeks to months to heal, with some damage needing surgery for recovery. This can drag total recovery time out to months or years.
The most important thing when healing from an RSI is to avoid doing the motion that created the RSI in the first place. Since this is a job requirement for most people, they risk losing their source of income and financial stability.
Thus, many victims of RSIs will seek financial compensation to get through this difficult time.