If you use a computer a lot at work, you could suffer a computer-related injury. Examples of such injuries include shoulder, neck or back pain, headaches, eyestrain, and overuse of the hands and/or arms. Any of these injuries can be painful and require ongoing medical care and time off work. Workers’ compensation will pay for work-related injuries caused by repetitive trauma just as it would any other workplace injury. You will, however, must prove that your injury or condition is the result of your work duties. Repetitive trauma injuries can be debilitating and lead to the need for extensive medical care and extended time away from work. Repetitive Trauma Injuries Repetitive trauma injuries are rather common with more than three million cases being diagnosed annually. The repetitive strain might affect ligaments, nerves, muscles, or tendons. Overuse or improper techniques can lead to repetitive trauma injuries. The symptoms might include tingling, stiffness, or tenderness in the affected areas. When an individual uses a computer for hours on end day after day, they could suffer from various computer-related repetitive injuries. Some examples of those injuries might include overuse of the arm and hands, which could result in carpal tunnel or ulnar tunnel syndrome. It could lead to strain of the muscles in the back, shoulder and neck. Sometimes eye strain and headache result. Reporting Your Workplace Injury As soon as you suspect your injury is work-related, you will need to report it to your supervisor or to the human resources department at your work. Your claim must be reported in a timely manner for your claim to be successful. State laws vary, but you must file specific documentation within a set timeframe, or your claim will be dismissed. Workers’ compensation claims are complex and challenging. There are legitimate claims that are denied by employers and their insurers for various reasons. You must prove that your condition is caused by your work duties, which could be challenging. Such claims require the guidance of a workers’ compensation attorney who is familiar with such claims and situations. Your claim could easily be denied, and you could lose access to much-needed benefits during a challenging time. You should get legal help so you can make sure you have a better chance for a successful claim. There are strict time limits on filing documentation. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you are suffering from a computer-related injury caused by your work duties, you will need to consult with a workplace injury attorney who is licensed to practice law in your state. Such attorneys are familiar with the process for pursuing a claim as well as with the documentation necessary to prove the injury is work-related. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to get your case review from an attorney who practices in your area. Strict statutes of limitations apply, so don’t wait until it is too late to pursue a claim. Additional Resources Carpal Tunnel and Workers' Compensation Benefits Programmers Guild and Workers’ Compensation*
