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What is a Cumulative Trauma Injury?

Cumulative trauma injuries, also known as repetitive stress or repetitive motion injuries, occur from repeated actions or exposures that cause physical harm over an extended period. Unlike acute injuries, which result from a single incident, CT injuries develop slowly and can be difficult to pinpoint to a specific event or time.

Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim for CT Injuries

If you believe you have a cumulative trauma (CT) injury related to your job, follow these steps to file a workers' compensation claim:

‍Report the Injury: Notify your employer immediately when symptoms arise. Early reporting is key to timely medical care and claim processing.

‍Seek Medical Attention: Get evaluated by a healthcare provider who can diagnose CT injuries and document the condition's link to your job.

‍Complete a Claim Form: Fill out the DWC-1 workers' compensation claim form, describing your injury and the repetitive tasks causing it.

Submit Documentation: Submit the claim form and medical records to your employer or the insurance carrier.

‍Follow Up: Stay in contact with your employer and insurance carrier to ensure your claim is processed and you receive proper treatment and benefits.
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Common Causes of Cumulative Trauma Injuries

Repetitive Motion:

Tasks involving repetitive movements, like typing, assembly line work, or using tools, can place continuous stress on specific body parts, leading to injuries.Examples: Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and repetitive strain injuries.

Prolonged Postures:

Jobs that require prolonged postures, such as sitting, standing, or bending, can lead to musculoskeletal issues.Examples: Lower back pain, neck strain, and shoulder pain.

Vibrations:

Exposure to constant vibrations from operating machinery or equipment can contribute to cumulative trauma (CT) injuries.Examples: Hand-arm vibration syndrome, affecting nerves and circulation.

Continuous Pressure:

Work that involves sustained pressure on specific parts of the body, such as using hand tools or kneeling, can lead to various injuries.Examples: Pressure ulcers, bursitis, and neuropathies.

Environmental Factors:

Long-term exposure to noise, chemical agents, or poor ergonomic conditions can also result in cumulative trauma.Examples: Hearing loss from noise exposure, respiratory issues from chemical inhalation.