Get Experienced Help With Your Workers’ Compensation Claim For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At the Atkinson Gerber Law Office, we represent people with all types of workplace injuries, including those caused by repetitive motion or cumulative trauma. Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common repetitive strain injuries. It is a type of nerve damage caused by irritation and compression of the median nerve in the wrist. This is the nerve that controls feeling and movement in not only the wrist but also other parts of the hand and fingers.
Who Is Likely To Suffer From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Many jobs and tasks, over time, may lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Typing and using a mouse
- Using laboratory tools
- Working with a vibrating tool such as a jackhammer
- Working at a cash register
- Assembly-line work
- Other repetitive movements at work, including repetitive grasping
Recently, the Mayo Clinic conducted a study of its own employees in an attempt to refute the assumption that typing causes carpal tunnel syndrome. However, responses may have been swayed by employees’ fear of losing their jobs. No independent study has been conducted, and typing on a computer keyboard is one of the most commonly identified causes of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Recognize The Signs And Symptoms Of CTS
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness in the fingers, primarily in the thumb and index and middle fingers. Pain in the wrist or hands is also a common symptom. Many people with carpal tunnel syndrome wake up in the morning with pain after a night of rest.
If you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and you believe it is related to your work, seek medical attention with a doctor of your choice, report the workplace injury to your employer, and contact our lawyers for workers’ compensation advice and guidance.
What Are The Short- And Long-Term Implications Of Carpal Tunnel?
Carpal tunnel generally gets worse over time, especially when left untreated. In the short term, you may experience pain, tingling and weakness in the hands, wrists or fingers that starts out gradually. Over time, those symptoms may increase in severity and cause permanent dysfunction. Some cases may require surgical treatment.
Why Is Carpal Tunnel Eligible For Workers’ Comp?
Workers’ comp covers work-related injuries, including repetitive stress injuries. It also covers existing injuries that are worsened by your job conditions. Carpal tunnel often results from long-term computer use and other repetitive motions that strain the delicate tendons and ligaments in the wrist area, and when it happens or gets worse due to work conditions, it qualifies as a work injury for purposes of workers’ compensation.
How Do You Prove That Your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Was Due To Work?
This is an area where robust evidence is key. You will need written documentation from your doctor that your carpal tunnel is work-related. If you had pre-existing carpal tunnel, and your work conditions aggravated it, you will need further evidence to show that your work contributed substantially to your current condition.
What To Do If Your Carpal Tunnel Requires Surgery?
You will need pre-approval from the workers’ comp insurer for carpal tunnel surgery. It’s important to work with a trusted surgeon who is highly knowledgeable about this condition and who can make a strong case to the insurer that surgery is necessary.
Free Consultations Available – Contact Our Office Today
To schedule a free initial consultation, call 800-583-7016. Our attorneys can be reached 24/7 with our after-hours answering service and are available to schedule consultations to meet at your convenience. If your injury prevents you from visiting our staff in the office, we are happy to make home, hospital and off-site consultations by appointment. We represent clients in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and statewide.
