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The human body is made up of various systems, one of the most fundamental being the Musculoskeletal System: the bones and muscles of the body. Parts of this system can suffer from strain and injury if they are used for very repetitive tasks, or are used in a way which causes discomfort; either long or short term, through positioning, or straining. There are various types of condition that can be caused or exacerbated by tasks performed in the work place.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) are most commonly an upper limb disorder that is brought about by doing the same task over and over again. Jobs involving typing, manufacturing, carrying loads or any repetitive action can all increase the risk of developing RSI, and injuries can be compounded when heavy weights are involved.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), also referred to as Vibration White Finger, is usually caused by the regular use of vibrating tools such as pneumatic drills, hammer drills, jigsaws and many other types of machinery. Symptoms frequently include tingling and numbness in the hand and arm, long after the vibration of the tool has ceased. In some cases these sensations continue indefinitely and can cause sleep disturbance and mental trauma.

Unlike other forms of arthritis, Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear to joints. In is most commonly found in elderly people but jobs which involve the performing of repetitive tasks – particularly those involving heavy weights – can cause the early onset of the condition. It is most often found in the fingers, hands and thumb, and also in toes and feet, and can be caused at any stage of life.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can be brought on by any work that involves manual labour including using a computer keyboard, assembly packing or even playing a musical instrument. It involves the compression of the median nerve that controls sensation and movement of your hand, making it difficult and often painful to move the fingers or control grip.

Tennis Elbow can be caused by either a single forceful injury to the forearm, or by regular over-use that can cause small tears in the muscles. This can result in inflammation of the tendons causing pain when moving the forearm and hand.

What to do if you suffer from any of these

If your employment has caused you, or someone you know, to suffer from any of the conditions described above, you should first speak to your doctor about treating the condition and minimising any pain and discomfort. Then you should contact one of our highly experienced solicitors. They have dealt with many cases of musculoskeletal disorders of all kinds, and will swiftly be able to guide you through the claims process and see if you are entitled to compensation.