A lot of work-related injuries aren’t caused by one specific event, like having a hand get caught in a piece of equipment or falling off a ladder. Many injuries are the result of years of muscle strain or wear-and-tear on parts of the body that are used daily – especially if they’re performing the same movements throughout the day.
These injuries are called cumulative trauma (CT) or cumulative trauma disorder (CTD). They’re typically musculoskeletal injuries (affecting muscles, tendons and nerve tissue). While people who work in physically demanding jobs often suffer them, carpal tunnel syndrome, which people can get if they’re working at a computer all day, is a common example of CT.
Who is most likely to suffer work-related CT?
Among the factors that can lead to CT injuries are the following:
- Especially forceful repetitive movements
- Lifting heavy items – particularly without the proper support
- Placing the body in an awkward or unnatural position to perform the repetitive movement
- When the repetition rate of the movement is high
- When the body is vibrating during the movement (for example, if someone is using a power drill)
A study by the California Workers’ Compensation Institute (CWCI) found that CT injuries are especially prevalent among workers in the manufacturing and food services industries. Those under 30 and those earning less than $600 per week are the most likely to suffer CT.
Many CT-related claims end up in court
While CT caused by work-related tasks qualifies for workers’ comp benefits, getting these benefits for CT can be more challenging than for injuries suffered in specific accidents. In fact, that CWCI study found that between 2010 and 2022, the percentage of litigated CT claims (those that are taken to court) rose from 29% to over 37%. Interestingly, the percentage remained steady here in the Central Valley.
Proving that a CT injury is work related and not caused by outside factors can be challenging. That’s why anyone who is having difficulty getting their claim approved is smart to get legal guidance. This can make all the difference in the final outcome.