Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Worker Susceptibility and Symptoms
Many jobs already involve the use of a computer. However, with much of the workforce transitioning to a "work from home" model, an increase in time spent working at a computer is anticipated. Long hours spent working at a computer can lead to the development of various occupational diseases. One of the most common we see is carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects the hands and wrists. Besides jobs that are performed on a computer, many blue-collar occupations pose a carpal tunnel risk as well.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome often involve tingling and numbness around the wrist area. While there are other factors that may make someone more susceptible to developing carpal tunnel syndrome, such as age and sex, many doctors believe that extensive computer work aggravates the condition causing it to become symptomatic. Under the Workers' Compensation Law, this is compensable.
NY Workers' Compensation Benefits for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The Workers' Compensation Board has set forth some guidance on various work conditions that, if occurring on a regular basis, are sufficient to establish work-relatedness of carpal tunnel syndrome, which includes: (1) Forceful use, particularly if repeated, (2) Repetitive hand use combined with some element of force, especially for prolonged periods, (3) Constant firm gripping of objects, (4) Moving or using the hand and wrist against resistance or with force, (5) Exposing the hand and wrist to strong regular vibrations, (6) Regular or intermittent pressure on the wrist. Most physicians will agree that prolonged use of a computer falls under 1, 2, 3, and 6.
If you think you may have developed carpal tunnel syndrome as a result of work-related conditions, it is important to act quickly. There are important deadlines associated with these claims and specific legal expertise is needed to bring your claim. The Workers' Compensation attorneys at MCV Law have extensive experience handling carpal tunnel claims. Contact us today to see if you have a claim.