Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Qualify For Workers’ Comp?

When most people think of getting injured on the job, they probably imagine an accident which causes a sudden and unexpected injury. However, there are many work-related injuries which slowly build up over time due to repetitive motions. Carpal tunnel syndrome is probably the most well-known of these repetitive motion injuries.

This condition can significantly impair your ability to do your job. Since it's acquired from performing the same repetitive motions throughout the day, returning to these tasks often makes the condition worse.

Many sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome may attempt to push through the pain instead of taking much needed time off. However, like any other work-related injury, those who suffer from this syndrome qualify for benefits through Workers' Compensation.

Is It Difficult To Receive Workers' Comp For Carpal Tunnel?

While any work-related injury is eligible for Workers' Comp benefits, some are harder to prove than others. Unfortunately, proving that you acquired carpal tunnel syndrome during work can be difficult.

In all types of injury claims, employers and insurance carriers frequently dispute or deny claims. This is doubly true for repetitive motion injuries. If a construction worker falls from a ladder, it's pretty hard to dispute that the injury was work-related. But if you've slowly built up carpal tunnel over several years of office work, your employer might argue that the injury was a result of activities outside of work.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Your carpal tunnel is a passageway that runs through your wrist and connects your forearm to your hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when your median nerve becomes compressed while traveling through the carpal tunnel. This results in the following unpleasant symptoms in the hands, wrists, forearms, and sometimes even in the upper arms:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Burning
• Aches and pains
• Weakness

It's not hard to see how these sensations could prevent workers in all types of industries from doing their jobs. These symptoms often develop gradually, but it's important to seek medical attention in the early stages. According to the Mayo Clinic, going without treatment can result in permanent nerve and muscle damage.

At-Risk Occupations

Occupations which require the repetition of the same motions over and over are at the highest risk for carpal tunnel syndrome. Additional risk factors include the use of hand-held vibrating tools and the extension of the wrists with a forceful grip. Particularly high-risk occupations include:

• Construction workers
• Factory workers
• Desk jobs requiring computer use
• Food service workers
• Bus, truck, and transportation drivers
• Receptionists
• Electricians
• Musicians

These are just a few examples of the many occupations affected by this condition. If you've experienced any symptoms of carpal tunnel and you believe it to be work-related, consider scheduling appointments with both your doctor and a work injury lawyer to discuss your options.

How Can A Work Injury Lawyer Help?

As we mentioned above, filing a Workers' Comp claim for carpal tunnel syndrome can be very difficult. However, a work injury lawyer who has experience filing similar claims can make the process much easier.

In any Workers' Comp claim, you must provide detailed evidence to prove that the injury was work-related. A lawyer can help you compile documents relating to your work history and medical history, and help you find a doctor who can evaluate your condition and determine if there is a connection to your job duties. From here, your lawyer will help you file paperwork by deadlines and can also communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.

If your injury is severe enough to prevent you from returning to work at all, a work injury lawyer can also help you apply for Social Security disability benefits. This is also difficult for carpal tunnel cases, but a lawyer who knows how the system works can be an incredibly valuable ally.

Learn More Here

• Complete guide to Workers' Compensation in PA
• Muscle and nerve injuries which require days away from work