Can Repetitive Motion Cause Injury?

Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your wrist after a long workday? Or maybe you’ve noticed swelling or stiffness that won’t go away. At first, you might ignore it, thinking it’s just part of the job. But over time, the discomfort worsens, making it harder to focus and complete tasks. These aren’t just minor aches—they could be signs of a repetitive motion injury. 

So, can repetitive motion cause injury in Santa Ana? The answer is definitely yes. For workers in industries like manufacturing, construction, office work, or healthcare, the risk is especially high. In most cases, these injuries develop slowly but can cause lasting damage. It’s frustrating to feel like your job is hurting your health, especially when you’re just trying to do your best to earn a living and provide for your family. 

Attorney James Koh is here to explain when and how you can seek workers’ compensation for repetitive motion injuries if what seemed like a minor ache becomes a major barrier in your work and personal life. 

A repetitive motion injury is a type of workplace injury caused by performing the same movement repeatedly over time. Unlike injuries from sudden accidents, these injuries develop gradually, often going unnoticed in their early stages. Repetitive actions place stress on muscles, tendons, and nerves, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced functionality. These injuries are also referred to as repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) or cumulative trauma disorders.

For many workers, repetitive motion injuries arise from daily tasks such as typing, lifting, or operating machinery. Even seemingly minor movements, like clicking a mouse or scanning items, can cause significant harm when done repeatedly over long periods. These injuries are common in jobs requiring sustained or awkward postures, poor ergonomics, or inadequate breaks.

The consequences of repetitive motion injuries can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that limits your ability to perform work or enjoy life. If left untreated, they can worsen and require costly treatments like surgery or long-term rehabilitation.

Repetitive motion injuries happen when the same movements strain your body over time. Actions like typing, lifting, or twisting can wear down muscles and joints. Poor posture, awkward positions, long working hours, or skipping breaks often make these injuries worse.

One major cause is a poorly designed workspace. For example, sitting at a non-ergonomic desk can force your body into unnatural positions. Over time, this repeated strain leads to inflammation and pain.

Common symptoms include:

Unfortunately, many workers ignore these symptoms, thinking “it’s no big deal” or “it’ll pass.” The problem is that ignoring repetitive motion injury symptoms could lead to permanent damage that would later require expensive and painful treatments.

Repetitive motion injuries take many forms, affecting various parts of the body. Each injury has unique causes and symptoms, but they all result from overuse and strain. Here are some of the most common types:

With any of these injuries, getting the right help early on can prevent things from getting worse and get you back to feeling like yourself again.

Preventing repetitive motion injuries starts with making small, smart changes to your routine. Take frequent breaks, especially during tasks involving repetitive movements. Stretching your hands, wrists, and other joints can reduce stiffness and strain.

Using ergonomic tools and maintaining proper posture is also critical. An ergonomic chair, desk, or keyboard can make a huge difference. Do you feel supported by your workspace setup, or is it working against you?

If an injury occurs, early treatment is key to recovery. Resting the affected area and applying ice might generally help reduce pain. Physical therapy, braces, or anti-inflammatory medication may also be needed. In severe cases, a physician may recommend surgery to repair the damage. Any treatment options should be discussed with a physician. The sooner you address your symptoms, the better your chances of recovery.

Employers have a duty to provide a safe work environment. This includes addressing hazards that cause repetitive motion injuries. Proper training, ergonomic tools, and reasonable break policies are essential to prevent harm.

If an employer ignores these responsibilities, employees have right to protect themselves. Employers are legally required to cover work-related injuries by providing several types of workers’ compensation benefits, including medical care benefits, temporary/permanent disability benefits, and supplemental job displacement benefits.

You also have the right to report unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation. If you feel unsupported or ignored, you can take legal action. If you do start receiving benefits for a work-related injury through your employer’s insurance coverage, you cannot be fired solely because you exercised your right to compensation. However, your employer may still legally terminate your employment for other legitimate reasons unrelated to your workers’ comp claim. 

Understanding your rights empowers you to stand up for your health. If your repetitive motion injury occurred at work, you deserve compensation and proper care. Don’t let fear or confusion stop you from claiming what’s rightfully yours.

If you’ve developed a repetitive motion injury at work, you may be entitled to compensation through your employer’s insurance coverage. Filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits ensures you get the support you need while recovering from your injury.

The process, however, is often more complicated than it seems, especially when requesting compensation for injuries that weren’t caused by a sudden accident. Employers or insurance companies may challenge your claim, arguing your injury isn’t work-related. They might say it’s due to outside activities or that it isn’t severe enough to require compensation. These tactics are frustrating, especially when you’re already dealing with pain and stress.

To build a strong claim, you need valid and conclusive documentation. Keep detailed medical records and seek evaluations from qualified healthcare providers. Document your workplace conditions, including the tasks you perform and the tools you use. Did your employer provide proper ergonomic equipment, training, or scheduled breaks? This evidence can help prove the link between your job and your injury.

It’s important to act quickly. Workers’ compensation claims often have strict deadlines, and missing them can jeopardize your case. If you’re unsure about your next steps, don’t wait to ask for help from a workers’ compensation attorney. They can explain how to file a claim and guide you through the process. Remember, this isn’t just about money—it’s about getting the care and support you need to heal and move forward.

Repetitive motion injury cases aren’t always as simple as they seem, especially in cases where you need compensation through your employer’s insurance. Employers and insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of your injury or claim it’s not work-related. This can leave you feeling powerless, but an experienced attorney can change that.

A good repetitive motion injuries attorney knows how to gather the right evidence to prove your case. They will work with medical experts and document unsafe workplace conditions to show how your job caused the injury. 

With legal counsel by your side, you have someone who understands the law and your struggles. Your attorney will handle negotiations with employers and insurance companies so you can focus on true matters—healing and getting back to your normal life. 

At the end of the day, you deserve someone who will fight for you. An experienced attorney isn’t just your legal advocate, they’re your partner in getting your life back on track. Why settle for less than the support you need?

Repetitive motion injuries are more than just a workplace inconvenience—they can change your life in ways you never thought possible. If left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and financial strain. But you don’t have to accept this as your new reality.

If you’ve developed a repetitive motion injury because of your job, you deserve support. Workers’ compensation exists to help you recover and move forward, but the process can be complicated. At Koh Legal Group, we help injured workers in Santa Ana and throughout the greater Orange County area fight for fair compensation. 

We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our dedicated workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to listen, understand your situation, and fight for what you deserve. Don’t wait until the pain takes over—contact us today so we can help you take control of your health and your life. Call us at 213-232-2725 or use our contact form to schedule a consultation.