Many workers in a wide range of occupations struggle with carpal tunnel syndrome. CTS is a condition caused by compression or irritation of the median nerve that runs through the carpal tunnel that connects your forearms and hands. It can cause hand, arm and/or shoulder numbness, tingling, pain, muscle wasting and reduced strength. These problems reduce mobility and often make it difficult for workers to continue at their current jobs or perform normal tasks like gripping, holding and lifting objects and pressing buttons.
If you believe that your job caused your CTS and you’re unable to partially or completely work and/or need extensive medical treatment, then you might be able to get workers’ compensation benefits. Consider the following:
Workplace Tasks That Cause Symptoms
Tasks that are repetitive, force you to overuse your hands and arms, create vibrations or require delicate movements over long periods cause CTS symptoms. These tasks include typing, pushing buttons, manipulating small tools and using vibrating tools. Common occupations that can cause carpal tunnel syndrome include data entry clerk, writer, locksmith, cashier, bank teller, waitress/waiter, seamstress/tailor, cake decorator, mechanic, assembler, warehouse worker and construction laborers.
Potential Challenges To Your Claim
Your employer will likely attempt to find non-work causes for your symptoms. For example, you might lose your case if you participate in sports or hobbies that cause repetitive motions like tennis, golfing, sewing or video game playing. Your employer might also try to use a past car accident or other hand or arm injury against you. Additionally, you might fail to make your case if you have another health condition that can cause CTS-like symptoms like arthritis, thoracic outlet syndrome or a naturally narrow wrist and carpal tunnel that make you more likely to suffer from nerve compression and irritation than other workers.
Professional Case Evaluation And Guidance
If you need helping determining whether you have a legitimate claim or you want to challenge a denied claim, speak with experts who specialize in workers’ compensation like the personal injury lawyers at Kidwell & Gallagher LTD. A personal injury legal team can assess whether you have a legitimate case and help you determine the steps to take to get the compensation that you deserve.
You should never let your employer off the hook for injuries that occur on the job. You may be able to receive wage and healthcare benefits because of debilitation caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Start reviewing your legal options today.
Author Bio: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer living in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys reading and indoor rock climbing. Find her on Google +
