Workers’ compensation isn’t just for sudden injuries like falls or accidents on a job site. In Maryland, you may also qualify for benefits if you’ve developed a repetitive stress injury (RSI) from performing the same physical tasks over time. These injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, and similar conditions that develop slowly but cause lasting damage.
RSIs are common in jobs that require repeated motion, such as typing, lifting, scanning items, or using vibrating tools. Over time, these tasks can put strain on muscles, tendons, and nerves. What starts as mild discomfort can lead to serious pain and reduced function if left untreated.
To receive workers’ compensation for an RSI in Maryland, you must prove that your injury is directly related to your job. Medical documentation is essential. Your doctor will need to diagnose your condition and explain how your work duties contributed to it. The earlier you report your symptoms and seek treatment, the stronger your claim will be.
Unfortunately, claims for repetitive injuries can be more complicated than those for traumatic accidents. Employers or insurers may argue that the condition is due to aging or non-work-related activities. That’s why gathering detailed medical records and a clear history of your job tasks is crucial.
If approved, benefits may include medical care, temporary wage replacement, and compensation for any lasting impairment. If your claim is denied, you still have options. A skilled workers’ compensation attorney can help you appeal and strengthen your case with additional evidence or medical expert input.
Ignoring repetitive pain can lead to long-term health problems. If you believe your job has caused or worsened a repetitive injury, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor and consider speaking with a lawyer who understands Maryland workers’ compensation law.
What Happens If You’re Injured While Working From Home in Maryland?
Working from home has become more common than ever. But what happens if you’re injured while working remotely? Are you still covered by workers’ compensation in Maryland? In many cases, yes—but it depends on the details of your injury and how it occurred.
To qualify for workers’ comp while working from home, the injury must happen during the course of your job. For example, if you trip over a power cord while attending a virtual meeting or strain your back lifting work-related materials, that may count as a compensable injury. However, if you fall during a personal break or injure yourself doing non-work-related tasks, your claim may be denied.
The biggest challenge with remote injury claims is proving the injury was truly work-related. You’ll need to document the time, location, and activity involved. Take photos of the scene, save emails or calendar invites showing what you were doing, and report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
Insurers often scrutinize work-from-home injuries closely because there’s no employer supervision. They may question your version of events or argue that your home wasn’t a work environment. Being consistent in your report and following up with medical treatment helps support your claim.
Establishing a clear home workspace and maintaining a regular work schedule also helps reinforce your case. These details show that you treat your home setup like a legitimate work environment.
If your employer or their insurer denies the claim, don’t assume they’re right. You have the right to appeal, and an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help present the facts in your favor.
Remote work doesn’t eliminate your rights as an employee. If you’re injured while doing your job—even at home—you may still be entitled to workers’ comp benefits in Maryland.
