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Wear and Tear Workers' Compensation Injuries, Cumulative Trauma Injuries, Degenerative Injuries

Cumulative trauma injuries (CTIs) are a significant concern in various workplaces across California, including the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, and Antelope Valley. These injuries develop over time due to repetitive motions or prolonged exposure to certain physical activities. They often manifest as wear-and-tear injuries or degenerative conditions affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. Below are examples of jobs or activities that our office has seen qualify for workers' compensation benefits, based on wear and tear, cumulative trauma, injuries:

Common Workplace Activities Leading to CTIs

Several workplace activities are prevalent in these regions that contribute to the development of cumulative trauma injuries:

  • Repetitive Motion Tasks: Many jobs require workers to perform the same motion repeatedly throughout their shifts. This is common in manufacturing, assembly lines, and warehousing where tasks such as lifting, packing, or operating machinery can lead to strain on specific body parts.
  • Prolonged Postures: Jobs that necessitate long periods of standing or sitting can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. For instance, retail workers may stand for extended hours without adequate breaks, while office workers may sit at desks for long durations without proper ergonomic support.
  • Heavy Lifting: Industries such as construction and logistics often involve heavy lifting. Improper lifting techniques or excessive weight can cause back injuries and other related conditions over time.
  • Vibration Exposure: Workers in industries like construction or manufacturing may use power tools that produce vibrations. Prolonged exposure can lead to conditions such as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), which affects blood vessels and nerves in the hands.
  • Awkward Positions: Jobs requiring employees to work in awkward positions—such as bending over or reaching overhead—can increase the risk of developing CTIs. This is particularly relevant in fields like plumbing or electrical work where access to tight spaces is necessary.
  • Environmental Factors: Workplaces with poor ergonomics or inadequate safety measures can exacerbate the risk of cumulative trauma injuries. For example, lack of proper seating arrangements for office workers or insufficient training on safe lifting techniques for warehouse employees can lead to increased injury rates.

Specific Industries Affected

In the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, and Antelope Valley regions, for instance several industries that our office has found that are particularly prone to cumulative trauma injuries:

Construction and Manual Labor Jobs (Blue Collar Workers)
Workers in construction and manual labor positions are at high risk for wear and tear injuries due to physical demands such as lifting heavy objects, bending, and working in awkward positions. Common injuries include:

  • Back Injuries: Heavy lifting without proper techniques can lead to serious back problems.
  • Shoulder Injuries: Lifting or carrying heavy loads can damage the shoulder joint or rotator cuff.
  • Tendonitis: Repetitive motions involved in tasks like hammering or using power tools can inflame tendons.

Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare workers, including nurses and physical therapists, often experience wear and tear injuries due to the physical nature of their jobs. Common issues include:

  • Back Injuries: Lifting patients or moving equipment can lead to significant back strain.
  • Shoulder Injuries: Repetitive overhead tasks may cause shoulder pain or injury.
  • Tendonitis: Frequent use of hands for patient care activities can lead to tendon inflammation.

Manufacturing and Warehouse Jobs

Employees in manufacturing plants and warehouses often engage in repetitive tasks that put them at risk for wear and tear injuries. Common conditions include:

  • Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs): Tasks involving assembly line work can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Back Strain: Lifting heavy boxes or materials without proper technique increases the risk of back injuries.
  • Hearing Loss: Prolonged exposure to loud machinery without adequate ear protection can result in hearing impairment.

Retail Workers Retail employees may also suffer from wear and tear injuries due to standing for long periods, stocking shelves, or handling merchandise. Common issues include:

  • Back Strain: Bending down repeatedly or lifting heavy items can cause back problems.
  • Tendonitis: Repetitive movements associated with restocking shelves may lead to tendon inflammation.

Office Jobs (White Collar Workers): Office workers frequently face wear and tear injuries due to prolonged periods of sitting, poor posture, and repetitive tasks such as typing. Common injuries include:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition arises from repetitive wrist movements while typing or using a mouse.
  •  Back Injuries: Poor ergonomics can lead to lumbar strain or disc herniation from sitting for extended periods without proper support.
  • Shoulder Injuries: Reaching for items or using awkward postures can cause shoulder strain.

In summary, jobs that involve repetitive motions, heavy lifting, prolonged sitting or standing, and poor ergonomic practices are particularly susceptible to causing wear and tear injuries among workers in Southern California.