Repetitive tasks on the job can silently wear down the body—sometimes resulting in painful, lasting injuries like tendonitis. In Connecticut, employees who develop this condition from work-related duties have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits. Yet, navigating these claims isn’t always simple. Many workers are unaware of their eligibility or how to effectively document their injury.

This article explores the workers’ compensation process for tendonitis in Connecticut, providing a clear path to understanding your legal options and how to secure benefits if you’re injured.

What Is Work-Related Tendonitis?

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon, the thick fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone. It is typically caused by repetitive motion, overuse, awkward positioning, or prolonged strain—factors often present in various workplace environments.

Common types of work-related tendonitis include:

• Rotator cuff tendonitis from repetitive overhead movements
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) from frequent lifting or gripping
• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) from repeated wrist flexion
• Achilles tendonitis in jobs requiring prolonged standing or walking
• De Quervain’s tenosynovitis from repetitive wrist and thumb motions

Workers across many industries—factory employees, construction workers, healthcare professionals, warehouse staff, and office workers—are especially vulnerable to developing tendonitis through the normal course of their duties.

How Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Covers Tendonitis

Connecticut’s workers’ compensation system is designed to cover not only sudden traumatic injuries but also occupational diseases and repetitive trauma injuries, which is where tendonitis falls.

To qualify for benefits, you must prove that your tendonitis arose out of and during the course of your employment. In other words, the injury must be linked to your work duties rather than activities outside of work.

Benefits available through Connecticut workers’ compensation may include:

• Medical expenses: All reasonable and necessary treatment related to your tendonitis—including doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and surgery if required.
• Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits: Wage replacement if you’re unable to work while recovering.
• Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits: Compensation if you can perform light-duty work but at reduced pay.
• Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits: Payment for lasting impairment if the tendonitis causes permanent loss of function.
• Vocational rehabilitation: Assistance with training or job placement if you can no longer perform your previous job duties.

Common Challenges in Connecticut Tendonitis Claims

Even though Connecticut law recognizes repetitive trauma injuries, proving work-related tendonitis can be challenging for several reasons:

• Gradual onset: Unlike a sudden injury, tendonitis develops over time. This makes pinpointing the cause difficult, which insurers may use to dispute the claim.
• Pre-existing conditions: If you’ve had prior tendon issues or participate in repetitive activities outside of work (such as sports or hobbies), the insurer might argue your condition isn’t work-related.
• Delayed reporting: Many workers don’t report symptoms early, either because they dismiss them as minor or fear retaliation. Delays can complicate claims.

For these reasons, documenting your injury properly and following Connecticut’s workers’ compensation procedures carefully is essential.

Steps to Take if You Develop Tendonitis From Work in Connecticut

If you believe your tendonitis is caused by your job duties, taking the right steps early can strengthen your workers’ compensation claim:

1. Report your injury promptly

Connecticut law requires that work-related injuries be reported to your employer as soon as practicable. Do not wait. Provide written notice if possible.

2. Seek medical attention

See an authorized healthcare provider immediately. Be clear about your symptoms and your belief that they are connected to your job. Accurate medical records are key evidence.

3. File a formal claim

Filing Form 30C with the Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Commission is required to formally initiate your claim and preserve your right to benefits.

4. Document your work activities

Keep a detailed record of the repetitive tasks you perform and how they may have contributed to your condition. This information will help your doctor and your claim.

5. Consult an experienced attorney

Given the complexities of repetitive trauma claims, consulting a workers’ compensation attorney familiar with Connecticut law can improve your chances of securing full benefits.

Industries and Occupations at Higher Risk For Tendonitis

While any repetitive work can trigger tendonitis, certain Connecticut industries see higher rates of this injury. These include:

• Manufacturing and assembly line work: Constant use of hands and arms.
• Construction and trades: Heavy lifting, tool use, awkward postures.
• Healthcare: Lifting patients, repetitive reaching, long shifts.
• Warehouse and delivery work: Frequent lifting, scanning, and loading.
• Office jobs: Repetitive typing, mouse use, and poor ergonomic setups.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, repetitive motion injuries account for about 28% of all workplace musculoskeletal disorders—a significant portion of workers’ compensation claims nationwide.

Why Proper Ergonomics and Early Intervention Matter in Preventing Work-Related Tendonitis

Employers can reduce the risk of work-related tendonitis through better ergonomic practices, such as:

• Adjustable workstations
• Job rotation to limit repetitive strain
• Adequate rest breaks
• Employee training on body mechanics

Employees who speak up about discomfort early may also prevent minor symptoms from progressing to severe, disabling tendonitis.

However, if you develop a significant injury despite these efforts, know that workers’ compensation is your right—not a favor. You are entitled to seek benefits that cover your medical treatment and support your recovery.

Conclusion

Work-related tendonitis can quietly undermine your ability to do your job—and impact your life outside of work. Connecticut’s workers’ compensation system provides essential protections, but successfully navigating a tendonitis claim requires careful documentation and persistence.

By reporting your injury promptly, securing medical evidence, and seeking legal guidance where needed, you can maximize your chance of receiving the benefits you deserve. If your job caused your tendonitis, you should not have to bear the financial burden alone.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Connecticut work safety claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.