RSI Claims

Updated June 2026

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) are regarded as one of the most common workplace-related health issues in the UK. They develop gradually and can sneak up on you as they can become debilitating before you realise the severity of the condition. However, when an RSI develops because your employer failed to implement safety regulations to protect you, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation.

If this has happened to you or a loved one, our guide below explains what you need to look for, why it’s advisable to speak to a personal injury solicitor and what to do next to start your claim.

Symptoms of Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive Strain Injuries are musculoskeletal disorders caused by repetitive movements, awkward postures, or prolonged use of muscles and tendons. They affect muscles, tendons, nerves, and soft tissues in the upper body.

The NHS lists the most common symptoms as including pain (including burning or throbbing), stiffness or weakness, tingling, pins and needles or numbness, muscle cramps and swelling. This typically happens in shoulders, elbows, forearms and wrists, as well as hands and fingers.

RSI often develops in environments where employees repeat the same motion for long periods, such as typing, lifting, scanning items, assembly-line work, or using vibrating tools.

How Can A RSI Develop in the Workplace?

RSIs typically arise from:

• Poor workstation ergonomics
• Inadequate rest breaks
• High-paced or repetitive tasks
• Insufficient training
• Faulty or inappropriate equipment
• Prolonged manual handling

When employers fail to address these risks, workers can suffer long-term pain, reduced mobility, and even permanent damage.

Different Types of RSI (Repetitive Strain Injuries)

There are a number of forms of RSI including:

• Vibration white finger
• Hand-held vibration syndrome
• Work-related Upper Limb Disorder
• Bursitis
• Dystonia
• Tennis Elbow
• Diffuse repetitive Strain Injury
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are two types of RSI:-

Specific Named Conditions – these include tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, tennis elbow, De Quervain’s Syndrome, etc.

Diffuse RSI – this is where there is no clear-cut diagnosis but a range of symptoms exist. Sometimes it is known as non-specific pain syndrome.

Avoiding RSI

According to the NHS, there are also things you can do to help reduce your risk of getting RSI, such as:

• maintaining good posture at work – see how to sit at a desk correctly
• taking regular breaks from long or repetitive tasks – it’s better to take smaller, more frequent breaks than one long lunch break
• trying breathing exercises if you’re stressed

If you work at a computer all day, make sure your seat, keyboard, mouse and screen are positioned so they cause the least amount of strain.

See tips on preventing RSI for more detailed advice about using a mouse and keyboard at work.

If you have been affected by repetitive strain injury as a result of your working environment, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

What Is Employer Negligence?

Employer negligence occurs when an employer fails to meet their legal duty of care to protect employees from foreseeable harm, such as developing repetitive strain injuries. Under the UK’s Health and Safety At Work Act 1974, employers are required to:

• Provide safe working conditions
• Conduct regular risk assessments
• Supply suitable tools and equipment
• Offer proper training
• Implement ergonomic adjustments
• Monitor workloads and break schedules
• Act promptly when employees report discomfort

When You Can File a Personal Injury Claim for RSI?

You can file a personal injury claim for an RSI at work when:

• You developed an RSI while performing your job
• The injury was caused or worsened by employer negligence
• The RSI has affected your ability to work or your quality of life
• The injury occurred within the last three years (standard UK limitation period)

What You Need to Do Next

If you believe your RSI resulted from employer negligence, take these steps:

Seek medical attention as a formal diagnosis is crucial

Report your symptoms to your employer and make sure it’s logged in the accident book.

Document everything by keeping a diary of symptoms.

Request workstation adjustments as this shows you attempted to resolve the issue.

Speak to a personal injury solicitor to get a formal claim for compensation underway.

Why Employer Negligence Matters

Employer negligence is central to your claim because compensation is awarded only when the employer failed to take reasonable steps to prevent your injury. If your employer:

• Knew about the risks
• Should have known about the risks
• Failed to act on those risks

…then they breached their duty of care.

FAQ: Why Should You Use a Personal Injury Solicitor For an RSI Work Injury Claim?

Do I really need a solicitor for an RSI claim?

Yes. RSI claims can be complex because they develop gradually. A solicitor knows how to prove this, gather medical evidence, and show that your employer was negligent.

Can a solicitor increase my compensation?

Absolutely. An experienced solicitor knows how to value claims accurately, ensuring you receive compensation for how the RSI is going to affect you on a long term basis and not just immediate symptoms.

Will a solicitor handle negotiations with insurers?

Yes. Insurers often try to minimise payouts, so a solicitor negotiates on your behalf and prevents you from accepting a low offer.

Is it expensive to hire a solicitor for an RSI Claim?

We partner with highly experienced personal injury solicitors work on a No Win, No Fee basis, meaning you only pay if your claim succeeds. They also offer a free, initial consultation to assess your claim.

Can a solicitor help gather evidence?

They have experience in obtaining medical reports, workplace records, witness statements, and expert assessments to strengthen your case.

Will a solicitor represent me in court?

Yes, although most RSI claims settle without going to court.

How We Can Help

If you suspect employer negligence contributed to your RSI, call us to discuss what to do next.

📞 Contact our professional team at on 0330 818 0038 or complete our online contact form.

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer