Can You Claim for Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)?

Repetitive strain injury is a common injury suffered by many workers in the UK. It is a general term used to describe pain and discomfort caused by repetitive actions which affect muscles, tendons and nerves in the upper body. Your employer has a responsibility to ensure that safe working conditions protect you against such an injury.

If you have sustained a repetitive strain injury at work, then you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our experienced personal injury solicitors to find out how we can help you bring a successful claim.

What Are the Symptoms of Repetitive Strain Injury?

Repetitive strain injury, also commonly referred to as work-related upper limb disorder (or non-specific upper limb pain), commonly affects the neck and shoulders, wrists and hands or forearms and elbows. As it can affect any part of your upper body, the symptoms will vary. However, there are certain things that should be looked out for to prevent the condition from worsening. 

The symptoms associated with a repetitive strain injury can vary in their severity. Furthermore, they could also come on suddenly or develop gradually over time. Common symptoms of RSI include stiffness, throbbing, pain, aching, tenderness, numbness, weakness or cramps affecting any part of the upper body.

If you ignore the symptoms of repetitive strain injury without seeking treatment, then the initial symptoms are likely to worsen and ultimately become more frequent or even constant. Individuals suffering from RSI may end up with swelling in the affected area, which could take several months to alleviate.

It is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you believe you are suffering from repetitive strain injury. Enlisting legal expertise can also help ensure you are financially supported in the form of compensation as you receive the medical attention you require.

Can Anyone Be Affected by Repetitive Strain Injury?

Repetitive strain injuries are caused by the overuse of muscles and tendons within the upper part of the body, meaning that virtually any job role has the potential to facilitate an injury of this kind. Ultimately, it is your employer’s responsibility to safeguard you from any conditions that may give rise to a repetitive strain injury.

People who work in particularly strenuous jobs are most likely to be affected by repetitive strain injuries, however, it can also be experienced by those who spend long periods of time in a particularly uncomfortable or unhealthy position. For example, office workers frequently develop back and neck pain as a result of sitting at a desk all day, particularly if their chair offers minimal support. 

Those working in more physically demanding roles, such as people employed in manual labour, are also very susceptible to experiencing the symptoms of repetitive strain injury. Whilst the condition could strike at any time or within any job role, there are several factors that may increase the risk of it arising.

Repetitive activities, such as continuously typing or moving objects on assembly lines, are a le