If you’ve got carpal tunnel syndrome and your job is to blame, you’re probably wondering whether your workers’ compensation carpal tunnel claim stands a chance. Can you get the benefits and compensation you deserve?
Allow me to answer this question. But first, what is carpal tunnel syndrome?
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that develops when the nerves and tendons in the wrist become compressed by the swelling of the carpal tunnel (the small “tunnel” in the wrists where the median nerves pass through the wrist). It can be painful and prevent you from performing the tasks that your job requires.
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can occur in the left, right, or both hands and often worsen over time. These symptoms include:
- Tingling in the wrists, fingers, and arms
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness in the affected area
- Swollen fingers
- Pain in the wrists and hands
If you have any of these symptoms and they prevent you from working, you should alert your supervisor.
Should I File a Workers’ Compensation Carpal Tunnel Claim?
Workers’ compensation is available for any injury that arises as a result of the work of your employment. You just have to be able to prove that your injury resulted from your job and not from some other activity. Because the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome can be difficult to prove at times, you should consult with a doctor who is familiar with how the workers’ compensation claims process operates. If you perform any of the following duties as part of your employment and you have developed carpal tunnel syndrome, you might have a case:
- Typing on a computer keyboard
- Repetitive manual labor
- Using tools that vibrate into the hands and arms
- Using a cash register
- Repetitive cutting or slicing
- Dishwashing
This is not an exhaustive list, so if you think you have a workers’ compensation carpal tunnel claim because of your job duties, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a workers’ compensation doctor.
Want to get your workers’ compensation carpal tunnel claim approved?
If you want to get the compensation and benefits that you deserve for your carpal tunnel claim, contact me today. As a workers’ compensation doctor, I will work with you to prove your case and get you the help you need.