Lifting Injuries and Repetitive Strain at Work in NJ
Not every workplace injury is the result of a sudden, dramatic accident. For many workers in New Jersey, the damage happens over weeks, months, or years of physical labor. Lifting heavy crates in a warehouse, moving patients in a healthcare facility, or constantly reaching for items on a production line can cause debilitating wear and tear. At Matarazzo & Lubcher, our work injury attorneys recognize that these “gradual” injuries are just as valid and deserving of compensation as any other job-site accident.
Common Types of Strain and Overexertion
Lifting injuries often manifest as acute muscle tears, herniated discs, or severe ligament strains. Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) occur when the same motion is performed continually, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. These are particularly common in industries prevalent throughout our state, including hospitality, shipping, warehouses, airports, and heavy manufacturing.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics consistently ranks overexertion and bodily reaction as leading causes of days away from work. Whether it is a single heavy lift that “throws out” your back or the cumulative effect of repetitive bending, the result is often chronic pain that makes it impossible to perform your duties effectively.
Establishing a Claim for Gradual Injuries
One of the primary hurdles in repetitive strain cases is proving that the condition is directly related to your employment. Employers and insurance companies frequently claim that these injuries are simply the result of a “gym injury,” “aging,” or “pre-existing conditions.” Our attorneys are skilled at connecting your specific job duties, such as the frequency of lifting or the duration of repetitive tasks, to your medical diagnosis.
Under New Jersey law, you do not need to point to one specific moment where the injury occurred. If you can show that your work activities were a material contributing factor to the development of the condition, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. This includes medical treatment, such as surgery or physical therapy, and wage replacement if you need time off to heal.
The Importance of Timely Reporting
Even though these injuries develop slowly, the requirement to notify your employer remains. As soon as you realize that your physical pain is related to your work tasks, you should report it. Delaying this report can give the insurance company an opening to deny the claim, arguing that the injury happened outside of work.
Our attorneys help clients navigate the reporting process and ensure that the medical providers focus on the occupational nature of the strain. We emphasize the importance of detailed medical records that describe your job requirements, as this forms the backbone of a successful claim for repetitive stress or lifting injuries.
Speak with a Cherry Hill Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today
If your body is wearing down due to the physical demands of your job, you do not have to suffer in silence. Matarazzo & Lubcher is committed to helping New Jersey’s workforce secure the benefits they have earned through their hard labor. We understand the mechanics of lifting injuries and the legal standards required to prove repetitive strain.
To learn more about your rights and how we can assist with your claim, reach out to our team. Contact us at 856-460-5805 for a free consultation. Our attorneys will review your case and help you take the next steps toward recovery and financial security.