RSI REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY COMPENSATION SOLICITOR

If you are a worker subject to periods of muscular tension whilst carrying out the same repeated physical tasks, you should be aware of the risk of repetitive strain injury which is a generic term that covers a number of different injuries. RSI is a painful condition caused when muscles are kept in a state of tension, generally in a poor posture, whilst carrying out repeated physical motions. RSI generally affects the muscles, tendons and nerves of the upper body, especially the arms and the upper back. Workers on an assembly line or those that use computer keyboards are most at risk.

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RSI is a syndrome that may include tendonitis, bursitis, tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, DeQuervain's syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, myofascial pain syndrome, trigger finger, trigger thumb and reflex sympathetic dystrophy. The symptoms which may cause pain and discomfort include tightness, stiffness, soreness, coldness, or numbness in the fingers, hands or arms. There may be loss of strength and coordination in the hands and a need to massage the hands, wrists, and arms. This problem is often caused as a result of improper actions by employers and a repetitive strain injury solicitor may be able to succeed in a compensation claim.

SOLICITORS HELPLINE 0870 174 0140

RSI affects thousands of people every year in a wide range of employment and the consequences can have devastating effects on both work and family life. Injury occurs due to repeated physical movements which damages tendons, nerves and muscles. Medical practitioners believe that prolonged repetition does not allow sufficient time for tissue recovery which causes muscle fatigue due to depletion of energy and a build up of metabolic waste materials. A repetitive strain injury solicitor can advise you on whether or not you have a viable claim. Anyone whose work involves some of the following may be at risk of developing this condition:

• badly designed equipment, tools or workstations
• overwork
• fast-pace work
• applying physical force
• inadequate rest breaks
• vibration
• no variety of tasks.
• awkward grip
• awkward posture
• repeated movements
• lack of training

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The symptoms of repetitive strain injury include recurrent pain in the upper body including the back, the shoulders and the arms, hands and wrists. This pain may be associated with tingling and numbness, and weakness in the muscles affected – endurance and strength are also likely to be compromised. This condition can be the basis of permanent physical disability and can give rise to an RSI compensation claim. If you have discomfort and your work involves any of the following you should take immediate medical advice and legal advice from repetitive strain injury solicitor:

• lack of variety of physical tasks
• inadequate training for the job in hand
• rapidly repeated movements
• prolonged physical pressure, such as gripping or squeezing
• too few breaks to allow muscles to recover
• awkward movements of hand, wrist, arm or shoulders
• holding an uncomfortable position for a long time
• long hours or fast-paced work
• equipment that is to heavy
• the wrong equipment for the job
• vibrating equipment
• inadequate workstations

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Some types of RSI are prescribed industrial diseases and sufferers may be entitled to injury and disability benefit from the DSS provided they are assessed at least 14% disabled. In addition a claim for compensation can be made in the civil courts. DSS benefits may be applicable for

• tenosynovitis,
• writer’s cramp, and
• beat hand, elbow or knee.
• bursitis
• carpal tunnel syndrome (from vibrating tools)

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Employers are under a legal duty to take care of the health and safety of employees and if this has been compromised due to lack of care by an employer then an RSI compensation claim for personal injury damages will succeed against that negligent employer. It is an employer’s duty to ensure that tasks are carried out by the most ergonomically favourable method and that adequate rest periods are provided for repetitive actions. Employers must carry out a risk assessment for all manual processes and failure to carry out such an assessment or a failure to act on its findings is unlawful.

SOLICITORS HELPLINE 0870 174 0140

Our repetitive strain injury solicitors use the no win no fee scheme and compensation is paid in full with no deductions. You do not have to pay for any legal fees during the entire course of the legal proceeding. Win or lose there is no charge. Our solicitors will give you a free consultation without further obligation so you can assess whether you want to make an RSI compensation claim or not. Just call our helpline.