Carpal tunnel syndrome affects millions of Americans every year, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and wrists. While it might not be as obvious as a sudden workplace accident, carpal tunnel syndrome can absolutely be caused by the work you do every day. If your job duties lead to or worsen this condition, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, a major nerve running through your wrist, becomes compressed. This can lead to:
- Pain or tingling in the hands and fingers
- Numbness or weakness
- Difficulty gripping or holding objects
- Long-term nerve damage if untreated
Causes can include repetitive hand and wrist motions, wrist fractures, or even pre-existing medical conditions. For many workers, however, repetitive motions on the job are the biggest risk factor.
Jobs That Put Workers at Risk
Many occupations involve tasks that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, such as:
- Typing or data entry
- Assembly line work
- Mechanics and machinists
- Cashiers
- Musicians
- Workers using vibrating tools
- Painters or locksmiths
These repetitive motions may cause tendons in the wrist to swell, putting pressure on the median nerve.
Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Be Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Yes. If your carpal tunnel syndrome is caused or made worse by your work duties, workers’ compensation can help cover:
- Medical treatment
- Lost wages if you are unable to work
- Ongoing care if the condition is long-term
The challenge is proving the connection between your job duties and your injury. Unlike a broken bone from a fall, repetitive stress injuries are not always obvious. That’s why medical documentation and experienced legal help can make all the difference.
Filing a Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you believe your job has caused your carpal tunnel syndrome:
- Report your condition to your employer as soon as possible.
- Seek medical attention to document your diagnosis and treatment.
- Keep records of your symptoms and how your job duties affect them.
- Speak with a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure your rights are protected.
How MCV Law Can Help
At MCV Law, we’ve represented many workers who developed carpal tunnel syndrome because of their jobs. Because repetitive stress injuries can be harder to prove than sudden accidents, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side is critical. We work to connect the dots between your work duties and your condition so you can get the benefits you deserve.
If you’re struggling with pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, don’t ignore it — and don’t assume you have to face it alone. Contact MCV Law today to learn how we can help.