Some workplace injuries, such as broken bones, happen in an instant. Others, such as repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), can develop so slowly that you might not realize you’ve been injured or that you might have a workers’ compensation claim.
No matter what kind of job injury you’ve suffered, you can always contact the Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood offices of Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626. Our family-based legal team would be happy to set up a free accident consultation for you with a Hollywood workplace injury lawyer so you can find out whether you might have a claim.
Preventing Repetitive Strain Injuries at Your Hollywood Job
If you perform the same tasks again and again at your job—such as ringing up sales, for example—you could be putting extra pressure on a few muscles or parts of your body. Over time, this can lead to RSIs, which can cause severe pain and even mobility issues. Here’s how to lower your risk:
- Take Regular Breaks. Schedule short breaks every hour to rest and stretch.
- Use Ergonomic Equipment. Customize your workstation with adjustable chairs, ergonomic keyboards, and adjustable table heights. If you use a computer mouse, use a mousepad with wrist support. The goal with your desk setup is to make sure you can easily work with proper posture to reduce muscle strain.
- Take Ergonomic Training. Learn about best ergonomic practices, including typing techniques and optimal desk arrangements.
- Address Discomfort Promptly. If you notice any aches, pains, or strain, try to adjust your workstation and report the problem to your supervisor or other appropriate person at work. Work together to find a solution that lets you work safely.
- Switch Up Tasks. If you can, vary tasks and incorporate different activities into your day to avoid overuse of specific muscles.
- Practice Self-Care. Incorporate stretching exercises and ergonomic adjustments into your routine. Take good care of your health by eating a nutritious diet, staying active, and getting plenty of sleep. When you are fit and rested, you’re in a better position to care for your health and safety at work.
Do I Have a Claim If I’ve Suffered a Repetitive Strain Injury at Work?
In Hollywood and across Florida, workers who have sustained repetitive strain injuries because of work duties may have a right to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance designed to provide financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer from work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes RSIs.
The challenge is that it can be difficult to prove that your repetitive strain injury was caused by work duties and not by activities outside of work, such as sports you play or everyday activities such as cleaning. In addition, employers and insurance companies sometimes dismiss RSIs as “minor” injuries, even though they can cause debilitating pain.
Because of these challenges, it’s important to report your RSI as soon as possible to your employer or supervisor. Gather as much information as you can about your injury and seek medical attention so you can document the injury and the causes.
You may also want to work with an experienced Hollywood workers’ compensation claims attorney. A lawyer can work with medical experts and can find evidence that your injuries are related to your work. An experienced Hollywood workers’ compensation lawyer also knows the strategies insurance companies use—and the laws and tactics that can be effective in countering those efforts so you get the benefits you deserve.
The family based legal team at Flaxman Law Group have more than 60 years of combined experience and our compassionate father-son attorney team are willing to face the biggest insurers and employers across the negotiation table and in the courtroom to get you your rightful compensation. Contact us at 866-352-9626 today to schedule a free accident consultation with a Hollywood workers’ compensation attorney.