If you have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and you believe that it was caused by your work environment, then you are likely wondering: can I get workers’ compensation for carpal tunnel? The answer depends on several factors. Keep reading to learn what they are, and remember that if you need a personal injury attorney, The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker is here to help.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
It is important to know that there are many potential causes of carpal tunnel. Any time the wrist, fingers, or hands are used for the same motion over and over again, the ligament can become inflamed, press against the median nerve, and cause carpal tunnel. Repetitive motion can include things like twisting, persistent striking, or bending in an unusual way.
Once your median nerve is compressed, it will interfere with the use of your entire hand and wrist and cause pain and numbness in your hand and fingers. It is commonly caused by work and is a frequent basis for workers’ compensation claims.
Repeated Movement is Not the Only Potential Cause of Carpal Tunnel
One of the issues you might have in securing workers’ compensation for your carpal tunnel injury is the fact that repeated movements are not the only potential cause of the disorder. Inflammation causes it, and repeated movement can cause inflammation. However, so can the following medical conditions:
- Diabetes
- Thyroid issues
- Arthritis
- Pregnancy
If you are pregnant or have any of those three health issues, then it might be argued that they are the cause of your carpal tunnel.
Some Occupations Are More Likely to Cause Carpal Tunnel
Any job that requires repetitive movements can cause carpal tunnel, but there are some that are more likely to cause this condition than others. People who work in data entry or with computers, factory assembly line workers, chefs, craftspeople, musicians, and professional drivers all commonly develop carpal tunnel.
Additionally, some hobbies can lead to carpal tunnel, such as sewing, playing tennis, crocheting or knitting, playing musical instruments, and regularly using hand tools.
How to File a Carpal Tunnel Workers’ Compensation Injury Claim
Carpal tunnel is a real injury that is most often caused by a person’s job. If this has happened to you, then you have a right to file a claim. If you receive benefits, they will likely involve reimbursement for medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses, and a portion of your lost wages. For most people, this will come to two-thirds of their lost wages.
The first step is to notify your employer that you are injured. You should then receive medical care. You will then file an injury claim with your employer. You will be asked to include information such as the specifics of your symptoms, when you first started experiencing them, and other facts. Your claim will then be submitted to their Workers’ Compensation company, and ideally, it will be approved.
