Working at a job requiring you to complete the same body movements may result in wearing down tissue. Over time this repetitive use may result in the need for medical treatment.
An overuse injury happens due to constant irritation to a particular part of the body, usually the soft tissue of a joint. Learn more about the most common repetitive injuries Minnesota workers may sustain at work.
What are common overuse injuries?
Your job dictates the type of overuse injury you are susceptible to. The damage to body parts occurs over time and gets worse. Stop performing the movement for a day or two. If the pain eases while away from work but resumes when you return to work, you may have an overuse injury.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
The most common repetitive motion or overuse injury occurs in the wrists. Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when a worker, such as a typist or a factory assembler, must use precise and repetitive hand movements. When the tissue in the forearm and wrist becomes swollen, it impresses upon the median nerve that runs into the hand and controls movement. Symptoms of carpal tunnel include:
- Aching in the palms and wrists
- Loss of grip strength
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
Rotator cuff
The shoulder consists of a massive network of muscles known as the rotator cuff responsible for the movement and security of the shoulder in the socket. Overuse of this muscle, such as those experienced by construction workers, may result in inflammation and eventual tearing of this muscle group. Loss of motion and pain may signal that you have suffered a rotator cuff injury.
Should your overuse injury happen due to your job, workers’ compensation should cover it.