Getting Workers' Compensation Benefits for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Around three to six percent of American adults are currently suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Although the figure appears small, it is the equivalent to a around 15 million individuals. This article deals with the condition and legal options for employees who suffer from this condition as result of the repetitive motion at workplace.

Basic Information about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

According to the National Institutes of Health, carpal tunnel condition occurs when the median nerve gets squeezed or pressed for a prolonged period. The median nerve, which extends from the palm to the forearm, controls the movement of the first three fingers and thumb. The pressure causes the nerve canal to become narrow, which inflames the nerve. The pain experienced by a person due to the condition gradually increases over time.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome condition may be caused by a number of different factors. Although the condition can result from an illness or pregnancy, but repetitive movements and trauma are the most common causes of this condition.

Repetitive motion happens when the wrist or hand continuously moves in the same manner for a long time. Numerous activities may require recurring movement of the wrist or hand. These activities include the following:

•    Data entry or typing tasks
•    Production work
•    Computer work
•    Stitching
•    Mechanical work
•    Painting
•    Farming
•    Playing a musical instrument
•    Fixing keys and locks
•    Cashiering
•    Tasks using equipment that vibrate

Trauma or injuries to the wrist area can also result to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. CTS may happen due to work-related activities or automobile accidents that result in fractures.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

The symptoms experienced by one person may be different from those experienced by another person. The type of activity that caused the condition often determines the symptoms, however, it normally manifests through the following:

•    Lack of sensation or an itchy or stinging feeling along the first three fingers or thumb.
•    Limited movement of the fingers or thumb
•    Painful sensation on the hand, arm and shoulder
•    Weakened grip or a person becomes incapable of clutching or pinching
•    Regularly losing hold of items

Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

A workers’ compensation claim may be filed by employees who suffer CTS due to jobs that require repetitive movement or actions. Employees can also file a claim when they start experiencing symptoms even after they quit the job that caused the condition. It may take months or years before repetitive motion injuries start to show symptoms. Employees may start to feel the symptoms long after they resigned from the job that triggered the condition.

This condition is considered as a compensable injury under the Missouri workers’ compensation system. Employees suffering from work-related CTS may be entitled to compensation for medical costs and lost wages. Compensation may also be provided to employees who suffer other disabilities due to the condition.

It may not always be simple to prove that the condition is indeed a result of work that the employee has been doing. The legal assistance of an experienced St. Louis workers compensation attorney may be required to get the compensation that you deserve.

If you have experienced a work-related injury call (314) 361-4300 to speak with a workers compensation lawyer at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. We have over 20 years of experience helping injured Missouri workers recover compensation for work-related injuries. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

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