Tendonitis is a common but often overlooked workplace injury that can significantly impact an individual’s ability to perform their job. In Massachusetts, workers suffering from tendonitis caused by repetitive motion or strain on the job may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. But unlike sudden injuries, soft tissue injuries like tendonitis can be harder to prove—making knowledge of your rights and responsibilities all the more important.

This guide explains how Massachusetts handles workers’ comp claims involving tendonitis, what evidence helps support a claim, and how injured employees can protect their health and financial security.

What Is Work-Related Tendonitis?

Tendonitis refers to the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick cord that connects muscle to bone. It typically results from overuse or repetitive movement, making it common in jobs that require frequent lifting, typing, reaching, or tool use.

Common forms of workplace tendonitis include:

• Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) – common in construction and assembly line work
• Rotator cuff tendonitis – affects those who frequently lift overhead or work in tight spaces
• Achilles tendonitis – experienced by workers on their feet for long periods
• De Quervain’s tenosynovitis – affects the wrist and thumb, common among clerical workers and healthcare professionals

Unlike acute injuries, tendonitis develops gradually, which can complicate the process of linking it directly to workplace duties.

Qualifying for Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Tendonitis in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the workers’ compensation system provides medical treatment, wage replacement, and other benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses—including repetitive strain injuries like tendonitis. However, to qualify, an employee must demonstrate:

• The tendonitis arose out of and in the course of employment
• Medical documentation clearly connects the condition to the job duties
• Proper reporting procedures were followed under state guidelines

Massachusetts law does not require the employee to prove fault. But workers must show that their injury is more likely than not caused by their job and not solely the result of outside activities or aging.

How to Strengthen a Massachusetts Tendonitis Workers’ Comp Claim

Because tendonitis builds up over time, insurers may argue it is the result of personal hobbies or a pre-existing condition. The following steps can help strengthen a claim:

• Document Symptoms Early: Keep detailed notes about when and where pain occurs and how it relates to work tasks.
• Report Promptly: Notify your employer as soon as symptoms develop. Even if the injury doesn’t seem serious, early reporting protects your rights.
• Get Medical Evaluation: A licensed provider must evaluate the injury. Be specific about your job duties and any repetitive motions during the visit.
• Follow Treatment Plans: Failure to follow medical advice may give insurers grounds to deny or reduce benefits.
• Consult an Attorney: Legal guidance is especially helpful if your claim is contested or delayed.

Benefits Available for Tendonitis Claims

If approved, a workers’ compensation claim in Massachusetts may provide:

• Full coverage for reasonable medical treatment, including diagnostic testing, physical therapy, medications, and surgery if needed
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits if you’re unable to work for more than five days
• Partial Disability Benefits if you can work in a reduced capacity but earn less than before
• Permanent Loss of Function compensation if tendonitis results in lasting impairment
• Vocational Rehabilitation services to help you return to suitable employment

As of 2024, TTD benefits in Massachusetts typically pay 60% of your average weekly wage, subject to minimum and maximum limits set annually by the Department of Industrial Accidents.

Common Employer and Insurer Defenses

Not all claims proceed smoothly. Some of the most common employer or insurer arguments include:

• The condition is due to aging, arthritis, or non-work activity
• Symptoms are not severe enough to qualify for time off or wage loss
• The worker failed to report the condition in a timely manner
• Lack of specific documentation linking the job to the injury

In such cases, the burden often falls on the injured worker to provide strong medical evidence and consistent timelines.

What Happens if Your Workers' Comp Claim Is Denied?

If your claim is denied or delayed, you have the right to challenge the decision through the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents. The process involves several steps:

1. Filing a claim using Form 110
2. Conciliation – an informal meeting to attempt resolution
3. Conference before an administrative judge
4. Hearing if the dispute remains unresolved
5. Appeals process for final review

Each stage has deadlines, so acting quickly is essential. Many tendonitis claims are initially denied due to lack of evidence but can succeed on appeal when supported by medical experts and proper documentation.

Tips for Preventing Workplace Tendonitis

While workers’ compensation can provide critical support, prevention remains the best approach. Employers and employees alike should take steps to reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries:

• Use ergonomic tools and workstations
• Take regular breaks to stretch and change positions
• Rotate tasks to avoid constant repetition
• Report early symptoms before they worsen
• Encourage workplace training on injury prevention

Occupational health studies have found that up to 33% of all work-related injuries involve musculoskeletal disorders, with tendonitis being a leading complaint among office, warehouse, and healthcare workers.

Conclusion

Work-related tendonitis is more than just an inconvenience—it can sideline a career and create long-term pain if not addressed promptly. Fortunately, Massachusetts workers have a right to pursue compensation when repetitive job duties lead to tendon inflammation or strain. The key is early action: document your symptoms, report them, and get appropriate care. If you encounter pushback from an employer or insurance provider, a skilled attorney can help ensure your rights are respected and your claim receives a fair evaluation.

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Workers Compensation Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in an accident in Massachusetts, don’t go it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence. 

Contact us now for a free legal review.