The Serious Impact of Non-Impact Workplace Injuries

When discussing workplace injuries, serious accidents typically come to mind. Slips, falls, and collisions can leave employees facing a long recovery – and holding hefty hospital bills. But there are plenty of on-the-job injuries that occur outside of a single, traumatic event. These are most often caused by performing everyday job functions, like typing.

So what happens when the simple act of typing causes discomfort and pain over time? Or when repetitive lifting results in serious strain on the lower back?

Our goal at Hoffman Law Firm is to ensure all injured workers recover the damages they deserve after a workplace injury, whether a dangerous fall or repetitive stress was to blame.

Keep reading to learn more about non-impact workplace injuries, and to find out how our Workers’ Compensation attorneys near you can help!

man at work with injured wrist, non-impact workplace injuries

What is a Non-Impact Workplace Injury?

Non-impact injuries are the result of excessive or repetitive physical effort directed at an outside source, like lifting heavy objects or typing on a computer’s keyboard. According to the National Safety Council, non-impact injuries were responsible for the most DART (Days Away from Work, Job Restriction, or Transfer) cases, totaling just over one million in 2021-2022.

There are three categories of non-impact injuries:

Overexertion: Excessive physical effort that places stress and strain on muscles, ligaments. and tendons. Over a long period of time, this can cause permanent damage to the body.
Repetitive stress: The repetitive motion of a specific task can cause minor issues from the start, eventually leading to major discomfort.
Exposure to toxins: Workers, while completely unaware, can be exposed to dangerous materials on site. Asbestos, for example, could be inhaled or ingested unknowingly, possibly causing serious long-term health effects.

A Closer Look: Common Types of Non-Impact Injuries

Overexertion Injuries

Sprains, strains, and tears are the three most common types of muscle and tendon injuries, all the result of overexertion. A wide variety of ordinary work tasks can cause overexertion, from lifting and carrying heavy items to pulling or pushing them.

You may be suffering from an overexertion injury if you have the following symptoms:

Dull ache
Stabbing pain
Inflammation
Swelling or bruising
Tingling or numb sensation
Lack of mobility
Inability to use certain body parts

If you believe overexertion at work caused your injury, contact a workplace injury lawyer in Charleston, SC today.

Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries, also called RSIs, can be accompanied by a long list of symptoms – and an even longer list of possible causes.

Here are some common symptoms of RSIs:

Muscle or joint tenderness or pain
Loss of sensation
Loss of strength
Throbbing or pulsing sensation

Causes behind RSIs can vary due to the diversity of job duties performed across industries. Common work-related tasks that can increase the risk of an RSI include:

Working in colder temperatures
Poor posture or non-ergonomic workspace
Administrative tasks (typing, texting, etc.)
Repetitive use of tools, like screwdrivers or medical devices
Holding the same posture or doing the same tasks for extended periods

Repetitive strain injuries may not seem like a big deal at first, but ignoring them can lead to serious complications as time goes by. Keep in mind that you have the right to recover damages for the long-term effects of your employment. Contact one of our personal injury lawyers for guidance in your Workers’ Compensation case.

How to Obtain Workers’ Compensation After an Injury

Overexertion and bodily reaction account for the majority of all work-related injuries – an astounding 31%. With over 282,000 injuries reported in 2018, it remains important to understand your right to compensation if you have been injured on the job.

A sprained wrist may seem like little more than an inconvenience, but it can keep you from returning to work and fulfilling your responsibilities. Here at Hoffman Law Firm, our Workers’ Compensation lawyers can help protect your rights and advocate for the full benefits you are entitled to.

Navigate a Workers’ Compensation Claim with the Help of Hoffman Law Firm

Our personal injury law firm proudly serves Charleston, SC, and is staffed by locals dedicated to providing top-notch customer service.

Our team of experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyers will give your case the attention it deserves, not only committed to securing compensation but providing peace of mind along the way. In fact, we’ll help you navigate the legal process of filing a Workers’ Compensation claim from start to finish.

Plus, you only pay us if we win your case!

Located in Charleston, SC, Hoffman Law Firm supports accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. Our personal injury attorneys are skilled in a wide variety of areas, including slip, trip, and fall incidents.

To meet with a member of our team, schedule your free consultation today.

Our personal injury law firm offers trusted legal representation right here in the Lowcountry, including these practice areas:

Workers’ Comp

Slip and Fall

Wrongful Death

Longshoreman Accident

Brain Injury

Spinal Cord Injury

View All Practice Areas

Other Helpful Workers’ Comp Blogs:

Am I Eligible for Workers’ Comp While Working from Home?

Can I Receive SC Disability Benefits After a Workers’ Compensation Settlement?