Repetitive strain injuries, in short
Repetitive strain injuries build up slowly from the same movements, day after day. If your work caused one, you can claim workers compensation. United Legal is a Canberra firm based in Fyshwick. We work on a No Win, No Fee basis and your first conversation is free.
Repetitive Strain Injury: what you need to know
Typing, assembly line work, packing, cleaning, hairdressing and many trades involve repeating the same movements. Over time that can cause pain, weakness and loss of function in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders and neck.
Because there is no single accident, people often put off claiming. You can claim for an injury that developed gradually, and acting early helps both your recovery and your claim.
Overuse injuries we help with
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis and tenosynovitis
- Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
- Shoulder impingement
- Trigger finger
- Neck and upper back pain
Injuries that build up over time
Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and epicondylitis, develop from doing the same movements over and over. They are common in data entry, assembly, cleaning, hairdressing, meat processing and checkout work.
Because they develop slowly, people often wait too long to report them. Tell your employer and see a doctor as soon as you notice symptoms. Early treatment and changes to your duties can stop the injury becoming permanent.
What workers compensation can pay
Under the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT) you do not have to prove anyone was at fault. You can usually claim weekly payments while you cannot work, medical and rehabilitation costs, and a lump sum for permanent impairment. If your employer or someone else was negligent, a common law claim for damages may be worth much more.
Read more about workers compensation claims.
Evidence that helps your claim
You do not need to have everything before you call us, but these records make a workers compensation claim stronger. Keep copies of anything you have:
- Your claim form and the date you reported the injury
- Certificates of capacity from your doctor
- Payslips and tax returns showing your earnings
- Incident reports, photos and witness names
- Emails or messages about your injury or duties
How much could a repetitive strain injuries claim be worth?
Every claim is different. The amount depends on what you earned before the injury, how long you cannot work, your medical needs, your level of permanent impairment, and whether a common law claim is available. We give you an honest estimate once we understand your situation, and we prepare every claim to get its full value rather than settling early.
Why people choose United Legal
- Three lawyers on every case. Your claim is checked by more than one experienced lawyer, start to finish.
- A local Canberra firm since 2004. We know the ACT schemes, insurers, doctors and courts.
- No Win, No Fee. No upfront costs, and you get a written costs agreement before we start.
- Serious injury experience. Our results include a $20m+ settlement and a $1.4m workers compensation claim.
Watch: repetitive strain injuries
What to do now
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as you can, and make sure it is recorded.
- See a doctor and ask for a workers compensation certificate of capacity.
- Lodge your claim form with your employer, and keep copies of everything.
- Get advice before you sign anything from the insurer or agree to a settlement.
Repetitive strain injuries: FAQs
When does the time to claim start for a gradual injury?
Can I keep working while I claim?
When does the time limit start for a gradual injury?
Can I claim if I have the same problem in both arms?
How much does a workers compensation lawyer cost?
Is there a time limit?
Find out where you stand.
Free claim check · No Win, No Fee