If you have been diagnosed with an RSI within the last 3 years and it is associated with your past or present employment then contact LPS today.
LPS has dedicated Industrial Disease solicitors that have helped thousands of people successfully claim repetitive strain injury compensation. We aim to the maximum amount of compensation available for your claim using our No Win No Fee claims process.
What are RSI’s?
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are “injuries to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems that may be caused by repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, or sustained or awkward positions”. RSIs are also known as cumulative trauma disorders, repetitive stress injuries, repetitive motion injuries or disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, and occupational or sports overuse syndromes. It is also known as Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD).
Common types of RSI’s?
A Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI’s) can occur in many different forms, but there are two main types:
Type 1 RSI: RSI is classed as type 1 when a doctor can diagnose a recognised medical condition. Symptoms usually include swelling and inflammation of the muscles or tendons. This includes conditions such as:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
- Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)
- Vibration white finger (VWF)
Type 2 RSI: RSI is classed as type 2 when a doctor cannot diagnose a medical condition from the symptoms. This is usually because there are no obvious symptoms, just a feeling of pain. Type 2 RSI is also referred to as non-specific pain syndrome.
Each type of RSI can have a similar effect on the sufferer. The amount you can claim in compensation is therefore not dependent on the type of repetitive strain, but on the effect on you as an individual such as: whether surgery was necessary, the amount of pain you suffered and your ability to work following the injury.
Causes of RSI’s
There are a variety of ways in which RSI’s can affect the body. Incorrect posture while sitting down for extended periods can be a contributing factor, whilst improper tool use, typing and heavy lifting can also play a part. The people most at risk are those who have to carry out the same movements and activities as part of their job every day.
Professions that are commonly affected by RSI’s include:
- Assembly line work
- Food preparation
- Use of tools (especially hand tools or tools that vibrate)
- Writing and typing
Symptoms of RSI’s
The symptoms of repetitive strain injury (RSI) usually develop gradually. They can range from mild to severe. Symptoms can vary, but often include:
- pain, aching or tenderness
- tingling or numbness
At first, you might only notice symptoms when you are carrying out a particular repetitive action, for example when you are at work. When you have finished work and are resting, your symptoms may improve. This is the first stage of symptoms and may last for several weeks or longer.
If nothing is done about them, the symptoms of RSI are likely to get worse and cause longer periods of pain. You may also get swelling in the affected area, which can last for several months. Without treatment, the symptoms of RSI can become constant. At this stage the condition may be irreversible.
What to do now?
If you believe you are suffering from an RSI we advise you seek medical advice from your GP to substantiate your claim or if you have already been diagnosed simply contact us to discuss your claim.