Repetitive motion disorders can permanently sideline a railway worker

There is no denying it: railroad work is hard work, some of the hardest in the country. Physically demanding tasks combined with long hours can leave workers worn out, and jobs that require the same type of physical motion day in and day out can lead to serious injury. Some rail workers find that after years – even decades – of faithful work on a railroad they are left injured because of repetitive motion tasks.

What causes Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Repetitive motion disorders (also known as RMDs) are caused by too many uninterrupted repetitions of an activity or motion. They can also be caused by unnatural or awkward motions such as the unnatural twisting of an arm or wrist to perform a task. Workers forced to sit or stand for extended periods in an unusual position can also experience RMDs.

Rail workers whose jobs involve performing the same task over and over without adequate break or without consideration to ergonomics are at a risk of developing an RMD.

Different kinds of Repetitive Motion Disorders

There are a number of different types of disorders that can be caused by repetitive motion. RMDs include but are not limited to:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Bursitis
• Tendonitis
• Epicondylitis
• Ganglion cysts
• Tenosynovitis
• Trigger finger

The parts of the body most commonly affected by RMDs include hands, wrists, elbow, and shoulders. However, it is not uncommon for other areas of the body like the neck, back, hips, knees, feet, legs, or ankles to be affected by an RMD.

Signs of a Repetitive Motion Disorder

There are several warning signs that you could be developing an RMD:

• Pain or tingling in a joint or limb
• Numbness
• Visible swelling or redness of a joint area or limb
• Difficulty flexing a joint
• Loss of strength

It is important for you and your employer to take signs of RMD damage seriously. If caught early you can recover from a RMD completely as long as you change how your task is performed, the frequency with which you perform it, and the amount of rest you get between movements. Without treatment a repetitive motion disorder can lead to temporary or permanent damage to your muscles, nerves, ligaments, or tendons. You could even be left with compressed nerves or tissues and unable to work at all.

Concerned that you are suffering from a debilitating repetitive motion disorder? Please don’t hesitate to talk to an experienced FELA attorney about your situation. To find out how the lawyers at Vujasinovic & Beckcom can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, contact them today.

Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C

1001 Texas Avenue, Suite 1020

Houston, TX 77002

Phone: 713.224.7800

Fax: 713.224.7801