It is frustrating finding yourself grappling with the painful effects of tendonitis at the workplace. Despite your best efforts to work safely and be mindful of your body, these injuries still happen. Tendonitis often presents as a nagging ache in your elbow or a persistent discomfort in your wrist. Many workers face similar challenges, and the good news is that you can seek compensation and relief. This article guides you through understanding the common causes of tendonitis, how to navigate workers’ compensation claims, and ultimately helps you reclaim your health and financial stability.
Common Causes of Tendonitis at the Workplace
Tendonitis is often the result of repetitive strain and wear and tear from workplace activities. Here are some of the most common culprits that may be contributing to your condition:
- Repetitive motion. Tasks requiring repetitive movements lead to inflammation, which is especially common in typing, assembly line work, and manual labor.
- Poor ergonomics. Improper workstation setup places undue stress on your joints. If your chair, desk, or tools are not designed for comfort and efficiency, it can exacerbate tendonitis wear and tear.
- Heavy lifting. Jobs involving lifting heavy objects strain tendons if proper lifting techniques are not employed. Over time, this strain leads to chronic injuries.
- Extended work hours. Long shifts with minimal breaks cause fatigue and prevent recovery, increasing the risk of developing tendonitis.
- Lack of warm-up. Just like athletes, workers should warm up before engaging in strenuous activities. Skipping this step leaves tendons vulnerable to injury.
It is crucial to recognize these factors as they directly contribute to discomfort and pain. Understanding the common causes of tendonitis at the workplace is the first step toward addressing and mitigating your symptoms. Once diagnosed, your workers’ comp attorney will connect your injury to the workplace, clearing a path to potential compensation.
Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Tendonitis?
In New Jersey, tendonitis may be covered under workers’ compensation laws, but specific criteria need to be met. Qualifying for tendonitis workers’ comp requires showing that your condition is related to your job duties. The New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation outlines that for a claim to be valid, you must provide evidence linking your condition to workplace activities.
Here is how you can effectively navigate this process:
- Document your symptoms. Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, when they started, and how they relate to your work activities. This documentation is crucial to your case.
- Seek medical attention. Visit a healthcare professional to assess your condition and provide a diagnosis. Ensure that they note your work-related activities in their reports.
- Notify your employer. A necessary step in initiating the workers’ compensation claim process is informing your employer about your injury as soon as possible.
- File a claim. You may file a formal workers’ compensation claim once you have your medical documentation and informed your employer. Be sure to follow the specific procedures laid out by your employer and the New Jersey workers’ compensation system.
- Consult with an attorney. If you encounter any roadblocks or feel overwhelmed by the process, consider consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney. They provide valuable guidance and help you advocate for your rights.
You have the tools to address your tendonitis at the workplace. Understanding the causes, documenting your situation, and taking proactive steps make navigating the workers’ compensation process easier. Do not let tendonitis dictate your life—take charge, seek the compensation you deserve, and pave the way to recovery and a healthier work environment. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; with the right approach, you can emerge moving forward pain-free.
Contact Us
At Petro Cohen, we have over 200 years of combined legal experience representing clients in complex workers’ compensation and personal injury matters. Our firm takes pride in providing personalized service combined with a dedication to optimal results. We know the difficulties that our clients face when they walk into our office. Our long record of success in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases and in particular, wear and tear claims, makes our firm one of the most well-known and respected throughout south New Jersey. We take all cases on a contingency basis, meaning we do not get paid unless we secure a judgment or settlement on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how Petro Cohen can help you.
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