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Computer vision syndrome may be a problem for office workers

On Behalf of | Sep 1, 2017 | Workers' Compensation |

When Minnesotans think about workers’ compensation, they might normally imagine injury accidents that happen while they are on the job. However, some work-related injuries and conditions do not involve traumatic incidents. Like other work-related injuries, conditions and illnesses that arise because of job requirements and conditions are also compensable under the workers’ compensation system.

A common condition that some office workers develop is called computer vision syndrome. This is a term that refers to several different eye disorders that are caused by long-term digital eyestrain from staring at electronic devices and computer screens. When workers have jobs that require them to use computers, tablets and other devices for hours each day, they are at a greater risk of developing these eye disorders, which include blurred vision, headaches and neck pain.

Obtaining the correct diagnosis of computer vision syndrome is important. If it is caught earlier, the symptoms may cease when the worker stops using the devices. Eye doctors may recommend that people with the condition make certain that their glasses or contact lens always have the correct prescription. They may also recommend ergonomic changes at the work station to prevent eyestrain along with a period of time away from the screen to help the eyes recover.

To help protect workers who are injured on the job or develop medical conditions related to their work, the state mandates that all employers carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage. When employees develop work-related conditions or diseases, they may submit claims for workers’ compensation benefits. The benefits may pay for all of their related medical expenses and care needs. Workers’ compensation attorneys may advocate for their clients to recover benefits if the employers or the insurance companies try to dispute the claims.

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