Tendonitis—an inflammation of the tendons that connect muscle to bone—is one of the most common work-related repetitive stress injuries in New Jersey. Whether it develops gradually from typing or suddenly from lifting, tendonitis can interfere with your ability to earn a living. Fortunately, New Jersey workers’ compensation laws provide a safety net for employees who suffer this kind of occupational injury. But pursuing benefits isn't always straightforward.

This guide breaks down what tendonitis is, how it's covered under New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system, and what injured workers need to know to protect their rights.

What Is Work-Related Tendonitis?

Tendonitis (also spelled tendinitis) occurs when tendons become irritated or inflamed due to overuse or repetitive motion. The most frequently affected areas include the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles.

Common Causes in the Workplace

Tendonitis can result from various occupational tasks, particularly when movements are repeated throughout the day. Typical work-related causes include:

• Assembly line work
• Typing or data entry
• Heavy lifting
• Working with vibrating tools
• Frequent overhead reaching
• Improper ergonomics

Jobs in manufacturing, construction, nursing, food service, and office administration all carry elevated risks.

Is Tendonitis Covered by New Jersey Workers’ Compensation?

Yes—New Jersey law allows workers to file for workers’ compensation benefits for cumulative trauma injuries like tendonitis. However, proving that your condition is directly related to your job duties can be more difficult than it is for sudden traumatic injuries.

Unlike fractures or lacerations, tendonitis often develops over time. Because of this, insurers may argue that your condition stems from aging or outside activities. For your claim to succeed, you’ll need strong medical documentation and a clear connection between your job tasks and the injury.

Signs Your Tendonitis May Be Work-Related

Workers should seek medical attention promptly if they experience:

• Persistent joint pain
• Swelling or stiffness
• Burning sensations near a joint
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain that intensifies with repetitive tasks

If symptoms worsen during the workday and ease when off-duty, that’s a strong indicator of a work-related cause.

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for Tendonitis in New Jersey

Step 1: Report the Injury

You are required to notify your employer as soon as you suspect that your tendonitis is job-related. In New Jersey, you must give notice within 14 days of discovering the injury to preserve your right to benefits.

Step 2: See the Employer’s Authorized Doctor

Your employer (or their workers’ compensation insurance carrier) will usually direct you to an authorized medical provider. Only treatment provided by this doctor is covered, unless you obtain permission to switch.

Step 3: File a Claim Petition if Necessary

If your employer denies your claim or refuses treatment, you can file a formal Claim Petition or Application for an Informal Hearing with the New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation.

Benefits Available for Work-Related Tendonitis

If your claim is approved, you may be entitled to:

Medical Benefits

All reasonable and necessary treatment—including physical therapy, injections, and sometimes surgery—is covered, provided it’s rendered by authorized providers.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD)

If your doctor says you can’t work while recovering, you may receive 70% of your average weekly wage, up to a state-set maximum. These benefits are paid after a 7-day waiting period.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

If your tendonitis leads to long-term limitations, you may qualify for additional compensation based on the specific body part and level of impairment.

Vocational Rehabilitation

In rare cases where the injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, vocational retraining may be available.

Why Claims for Tendonitis Are Often Denied

Despite being a legitimate injury, claims for tendonitis are frequently challenged by employers or insurers for several reasons:

• Gradual onset makes it difficult to link directly to work
• No specific accident or triggering event
• Inconsistent or delayed medical treatment
• Pre-existing conditions like arthritis used as a scapegoat
• Lack of workplace ergonomic evaluation

To overcome these hurdles, detailed medical records and job-specific evidence are key.

How a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help

Navigating the claims process on your own can be frustrating—especially when dealing with a cumulative trauma like tendonitis. A qualified workers’ compensation lawyer in New Jersey can:

• Collect supporting medical and job evidence
• Challenge an insurance denial
• Negotiate fair benefit payments
• Ensure you’re not pressured into returning to work too soon
• Help you pursue a permanency award, if applicable

They can also represent you during informal or formal hearings before the Division of Workers’ Compensation.

Preventing Tendonitis in the Workplace

Employers can minimize risk by implementing:

• Ergonomic workstations
• Job rotation policies
• Proper training in lifting techniques
• Anti-vibration gloves and equipment
• Scheduled breaks for repetitive tasks

Workers should also report discomfort early and request ergonomic adjustments when needed.

Conclusion

Tendonitis may not always look dramatic, but it can lead to real and lasting work limitations. New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide medical care and wage replacement for employees injured on the job—including those with repetitive motion injuries like tendonitis.

Still, proving a claim for this kind of injury can be more complex than for an accident-based injury. Knowing your rights, acting quickly, and seeking legal support when needed can make the difference between a denied claim and a successful recovery.

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

Navigating New Jersey workers’ comp claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced workers comp 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.