Various factors can lead to a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, a life and career-changing medical condition suffered by up to six percent of adults. For some, repetitive movements played a role. For others, a serious injury was the cause.
For those who are dealing with carpal tunnel due to work responsibilities, workers’ compensation may be an option.
How do injuries happen?
The carpal tunnel can be found in the palm of your hand. Surrounded by ligaments and bones is strong connective tissue at the root of the tunnel. The median nerve is what gives you feeling in a majority of your fingers and also controls muscles near the base of your thumb. Subsequent narrowing or swelling of the tissue around your flexor tendons, putting pressure on the median never reduces blood flow.
While repetitive motion is a common cause of carpal tunnel, damage can still be done due to wrist fractures, rheumatoid arthritis, and even heredity.
One of the first symptoms is hands and fingers that are experiencing numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation, particularly in the fingers. Significant weakness that leads to dropping objects is also an indication of carpal tunnel. Occasional electric shocks are also a sign of injury.
Common professions
Countless cases of carpal tunnel can be linked to work-related and highly repetitive routines, not to mention injuries, particularly wrist fractures. Those professionals who are most prone to the affliction include:
- Assembly-line employees
- Computer and typing-intensive jobs that include writers and data entry staff
- Sewing commonly performed by tailors, seamstresses, and otters
- Certain blue-collar jogs that include painters, locksmiths, mechanics, and agricultural workers
A diagnosis of carpal tunnel does not necessitate proving that your employer was negligent in any way. However, proof is paramount that the job you performed resulted in your injury. An attorney experienced in this type of injury law can help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.
