RSI Compensation Claims | Repetitive Strain Injury Claims

If you work in any kind of job that requires fast, repetitive movements, particularly flexing the wrist, elbow or shoulder, or working at speed, then there is a chance you may suffer from a repetitive strain injury, or to give it it’s proper name, an upper limb disorder. There are many different types of upper limb disorder, and on this page Camps Solicitors has put together a guide to some of the most common repetitive strain injuries resulting from repetitive work.

Common Upper Limb Disorders

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common repetitive strain injury where one of the nerves leading from the arm to the hand is compressed in an area of the wrist known as the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a form of protective covering through which all nerves and tendons in the wrist pass. The compression of the nerves can cause a painful sensation of pins and needles and weakness of the hands and fingers. Medical evidence suggests that this condition is associated with repeated use of the wrist and hand.

Tenosynovitis

Tenosynovitis is an inflammation of the synovium around the tendons. The synovium is the sheath that surrounds and protects the tendons passing through the wrist and into the hand. “Teno” means the tendons; “synov” refers to the synovium, and “itis” means inflammation. There is considerable debate as to whether Tenosynovitis is caused directly by repetitive work, it is a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis and may be worsened by repetitive work.

Peri-Tendinitis

Peri-Tendinitis describes an inflammation of the junction between muscle and the tendons attached to the thumb on the inner side of the wrist. The condition is characterised by pain and swelling of the affected area. Unlike tenosynovitis, it is widely accepted that Peri-Tendinitis is caused by rapidly repeated movements, such as those performed when doing repetitive work.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons in the hand and wrist, which leads to pain and swelling. The tendons can become locked in their sheaths, and this can cause the fingers to become locked in place; a condition known as “Trigger Finger”. The fingers must then be painfully released, like a trigger, by using the other hand to grip and straighten the finger.