If you have been experiencing pain in a specific part of your body that has been confirmed as repetitive strain injury, you are probably coping with a range of emotions including sadness, confusion and anger. Not only that, but your doctor might have signed you off work if you are unable to carry out the function of your role due to ongoing pain.

At this point, you are probably trying to seek answers for why this injury has been caused, and what you can do from this point onwards. This blog post will go some way to helping you on your way, although there are other resources on-line that you might find helpful.

What is repetitive strain injury?

Repetitive strain injury, or RSI, is a condition that can begin and progress following the repetitive use of certain parts of the body. There are a whole host of reasons that someone could end up with RSI, but in some cases it can occur through the expected responsibilities and functions of a job. It is worth noting that there are many strains of RSI, but all of them have some effect on nerves, tendons and muscles.

What causes RSI?

Workplace environments can often be responsible for the onset or the worsening of RSI symptoms, as there are actions done within the role that can be done day in and day out. Some of the common causes include: computer users who develop bad posture through stooping or leaning, hand-held vibrating equipment, working in areas of low temperature, and carrying heavy items.

RSI and your finances

If you believe that your own case of RSI has been caused by your working environment, you could be able to claim compensation for your injuries. As your case is severe enough for you to be signed off work, you may be able to seek a higher amount from your employer. It is your legal and civil right to claim compensation, and it could help you to cover the costs needed for ongoing medical care, as well as being out of work. If you cannot afford to put in a claim without getting into debt, no win no fee could be an option. A solicitor will be able to help you to pursue your claim with professional assistance, as many people could struggle to do it by themselves.

Future outlook

Once compensation has been awarded, you could choose to get private medical treatment if you think that this will be beneficial to your recovery, or simply stay on a programme that you don’t need to pay for. In the long term, working through pain can cause further damage, and more chronic conditions can mean a longer recovery. Therefore you must listen to your body. Upon returning to work, the contributing factors to the RSI should be eradicated by your employer; you should also think about a gradual return to work if you are concerned about further issues.