Learn how to prove your tendonitis is work-related so you can get maximum workers’ comp benefits
Across many industries in Columbia, South Carolina, tendonitis is a prevalent work-related injury that can significantly impact the livelihoods of workers. Whether from repetitive motions in manufacturing plants, constant typing in office settings, or strenuous physical labor in construction sites, tendonitis can arise from a multitude of job duties.
While this condition may initially seem minor, its effects can be debilitating, hindering productivity and causing prolonged pain and discomfort for affected workers.
Fortunately, under South Carolina’s workers’ compensation laws, workers suffering from tendonitis and other work-related injuries may be entitled to benefits to alleviate financial burdens and facilitate their recoveries.
What is tendonitis?
Tendonitis involves the swelling or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. It commonly occurs due to repetitive movements, overuse or strain, leading to pain, swelling and restricted movement in the affected area.
Tendonitis can affect various parts of the body, including the wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees and ankles, and it is often associated with occupations that involve repetitive motions or excessive physical strain.
Which workers have the highest risk of developing tendonitis?
Workers who engage in repetitive tasks or activities that involve frequent or prolonged use of specific muscle groups are most at risk of developing tendonitis. This includes individuals in occupations such as:
- Landscapers
- Carpenters
- Office workers
- Musicians
- Athletes
Any job that requires repetitive motions, forceful exertion, awkward postures or vibration can increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis. Additionally, workers in industries where tasks involve constant gripping, lifting or overhead movements are also at higher risk.
Should I take time off work for tendonitis?
Whether or not to take time off work for tendonitis depends on the severity of your condition and the demands of your job. In some cases, taking time off work may be necessary to allow the affected tendons to rest and heal properly because continuing to work can exacerbate symptoms and prolong recovery.
If your job involves activities that contribute to your tendonitis, such as repetitive motions or heavy lifting, modifying your work duties or taking time off may be advisable to prevent further injury and promote healing.
How long will I be off work with tendonitis?
The duration of time off work for tendonitis varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the effectiveness of treatment, and the nature of your job.
In mild cases, where tendonitis is caught early and promptly treated with rest, ice, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, individuals may only need to take a few days or weeks off work before gradually returning to their regular duties.
However, in more severe cases or if tendonitis is left untreated, recovery may take several weeks or even months, during which time you may need to take an extended leave from work to allow for adequate healing and rehabilitation.
It’s essential to follow your health care provider’s recommendations and work closely with your employer to determine the most appropriate timeframe for returning to work based on your individual circumstances.
Is tendonitis considered a work-related injury?
Yes, tendonitis can be considered a type of work-related injury (often referred to as an occupational disease) if it’s directly caused or aggravated by activities performed on the job.
To qualify for workers’ compensation benefits for tendonitis, workers typically need to prove that their condition resulted from work-related tasks or conditions. This can be challenging because tendonitis often develops gradually over time due to repetitive movements rather than from a single traumatic event, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.
Additionally, employers and workers’ compensation insurance companies may dispute claims for tendonitis, arguing that it was not solely caused by work-related activities. Therefore, workers may need to provide extensive medical documentation, including evidence of their job duties and how they contributed to the development of tendonitis, to successfully receive benefits.
What To Do After a Work Injury or Illness in South Carolina
Learn the steps to follow to ensure you receive maximum workers’ comp benefits.
What workers’ comp benefits am I entitled to for tendonitis?
Workers’ compensation benefits for tendonitis typically include coverage for medical expenses related to the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of the condition. This can include doctor’s visits, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical procedures.
Additionally, workers may be entitled to receive compensation for lost wages if they’re unable to work due to tendonitis. These benefits are typically two-thirds of a worker’s average weekly wage for a period of time that depends on the severity of the condition.
In some cases, workers may also be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits to help them find employment in a different line of work if they’re permanently unable to perform their previous job duties due to tendonitis.
How do I file a workers’ comp claim in South Carolina?
To file a workers’ comp claim for tendonitis in South Carolina, qualifying employees should follow these steps to increase their chance of a successful claim:
- Seek medical care. This step is crucial, as it provides documentation linking your injury to your job. In most cases, you will need to see an employer-approved physician for your injury to be covered under workers’ comp.
- Report the accident to your employer. Next, make sure to provide a written report to your employer within 90 days of your injury or the discovery of your injury. Not notifying your employer in a timely manner could lead to your claim being denied.
- Verify your employer files a claim. After you notify your employer about your injury, they’re required to file a claim on your behalf with their insurer and notify the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission of your claim. If your employer does not file your claim, you have the option to file it yourself by submitting Form 50 to the Commission.
Because workers’ comp claims for occupational diseases like tendonitis that develop over time can be more difficult to prove, it’s not uncommon for employers to initially deny these claims. However, that doesn’t mean you’re not entitled to benefits.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal, but it’s strongly recommended that you consult an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to help you with the process to ensure your rights are protected.
Get help from an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in South Carolina
If you’re suffering from work-related tendonitis, the seasoned Columbia work injury attorneys at Chappell, Chappell & Newman are here to help. We have over 30 years of experience advocating for the rights of injured workers, helping them get the benefits they deserve. Our commitment is to vigorously defend your rights so we can maximize your compensation while you recover.