Repetitive Stress Injuries Workers Comp in West Virginia

Repetitive Stress Injuries Overview

Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) develop gradually from repeated motions, sustained awkward postures, or overuse of specific muscle groups. Common examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, bursitis, and trigger finger. These injuries are prevalent in office work, manufacturing, assembly lines, and any job requiring repetitive hand, wrist, or arm movements.

West Virginia Workers Comp Benefits

Common Symptoms — Repetitive Stress Injuries

• •Persistent pain in the affected area (wrists, hands, elbows, shoulders)
• •Numbness and tingling, especially in the hands and fingers
• •Weakness and loss of grip strength
• •Swelling or inflammation at the joint or tendon
• •Stiffness, especially in the morning
• •A burning or aching sensation
• •Difficulty performing fine motor tasks

Key Facts

• ✓Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most commonly reported repetitive stress injury
• ✓RSI claims can be harder to prove because the injury develops over time
• ✓Filing deadlines for RSIs often begin from the date of diagnosis, not onset of symptoms
• ✓Surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome increases average settlement values significantly
• ✓Ergonomic assessments can serve as evidence in RSI workers comp claims
• ✓RSIs affect over 1.8 million workers annually in the United States
• ✓West Virginia privatized its state fund in 2006 (BrickStreet, now Encova)
• ✓All employers must carry coverage
• ✓Benefits are 66⅔% of average weekly wage
• ✓Coal miners have additional black lung protections