Is your physical pain caused by your railroad job?

When you think of occupational hazards on a Louisiana railroad, you might automatically think of train wrecks, derailments and other catastrophic incidents that often place railroad employees at risk for injury. However, not every injury involves a locomotive accident. In fact, sometimes, railroad workers develop adverse health conditions while simply carrying out their everyday tasks and duties on the job.

Repetitive strain injuries are common in many types of work. It is critical that you know how to recognize the signs of possible injury and also that you know where to seek support if a problem arises. In some situations, employer negligence is a causal factor toward railroad employee injury, in which case it’s a good idea to connect with legal support as well.

Know the signs   

If you’re working on a Louisiana railroad and you trip and fall on the tracks or a station platform and break your ankle, your injury is immediately apparent. The following list includes symptoms of injury that often accompany other workplace situations, especially those that include performing the same task or holding the same posture over and over again:

• Tingling in your extremities, such as fingertips, toes, arms or legs
• Being unable to grasp things, such as when trying to hold a coffee cup
• Tremors or shakiness in your hands
• Burning, aching or numbness in any part of your body
• Lingering fatigue or weakness
• Hands that always feel cold
• Inability to do things you normally can do, such as chop vegetables or comb your hair

Any and all of these issues are signs of possible repetitive strain injury. If your job on the railroad, whether in an office setting or on a train, necessitates you performing the same movement or task multiple times each day, you are at risk for this type of injury.

Getting care that you need

You might try to ignore a chronic pain, thinking that it’s just part of aging or is to be expected in your type of work. However, not seeking medical attention can lead to more serious problems down the line. In fact, repetitive strain injuries sometimes cause permanent disability.

You’ll want to immediately report your suspected injury to your employer and also thoroughly document any and all medical care you receive in connection with your condition. As for the legal issues that might be involved, it’s a good idea to touch base with an experienced attorney who is well-versed in the Federal Employers Liability Act.