Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most prevalent occupational injuries nationwide, affecting millions of workers across various industries. A 2022 review of carpal tunnel studies found a positive correlation between specific work-related activities and carpal tunnel syndrome. [1]
This occupational disease, often caused by repetitive hand movements, can lead to significant pain, discomfort, and disability, making it difficult for individuals to perform their jobs or complete daily activities.
Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to help those affected understand their rights to workers’ compensation, which is crucial in securing the necessary financial and medical support.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, becomes compressed at the wrist.
This nerve passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand. When the space within the carpal tunnel decreases due to swelling or other factors, the median nerve is squeezed, leading to symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The median nerve is responsible for providing sensation to the palm side of the thumb, index, and middle fingers, as well as a part of the ring finger. It also controls some of the small muscles in the hand that allow the thumb and fingers to move. When compressed, the nerve’s ability to function is impaired, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist.
Common Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can vary in intensity but commonly include:
- Numbness or Tingling: This often occurs in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. These sensations are typically most noticeable at night or during activities that involve gripping or holding objects.
- Pain: Pain can range from mild to severe, extending along the median nerve from the wrist to the arm.
- Weakness: Individuals may experience weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects or perform fine motor tasks.
- Swelling: Swelling is one of the most common carpal tunnel symptoms.
- Clumsiness: Dropping objects or struggling with tasks like buttoning a shirt can become common as carpal tunnel worsens.
These symptoms can severely impact a person’s ability to perform their job, particularly in occupations that require repetitive hand or wrist movements. Daily activities like typing, driving, or holding a phone can become challenging and painful. For many, the pain and dysfunction associated with carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life.
Carpal Tunnel Injury and Workers’ Compensation
Carpal tunnel syndrome is prevalent in work environments where employees perform repetitive tasks involving their hands and wrists.
Jobs that require repetitive hand motions, such as typing, assembly line work, or vibrating tools, are associated with a higher risk of developing carpal tunnel symptoms. Higher-risk occupations include office, assembly line, construction, and healthcare workers.
Given its prevalence, carpal tunnel syndrome is recognized as one of the leading causes of lost work time and productivity, making it a significant concern for employees and employers. Employers may have to pay workers comp benefits if they have a work-related injury, including a wrist injury.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
To qualify for workers comp benefits for carpal tunnel syndrome, an injured worker must demonstrate that their condition is a work-related injury.
This means proving that their job duties either caused or significantly contributed to the development or aggravation of CTS. Workers who complete tasks that require repetitive hand movements, physical labor, or vibrating tools will have a strong case for workers comp.
In Illinois, an injured worker does not need to prove negligence on the employer’s part to receive workers comp; they only need to show that the injury occurred due to their work duties.
Types of Benefits Available
Workers diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome may be eligible for various benefits under workers comp, including:
- Medical Treatment: coverage for all necessary medical care related to carpal tunnel syndrome, including doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and surgery if needed.
- Temporary Disability Benefits: compensation for lost wages if the worker cannot perform their job while recovering from carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: compensation for the condition’s lasting effects.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: assistance with retraining or job placement if the worker can no longer perform their previous job due to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Filing a Carpal Tunnel Workers Compensation Claim
Filing a workers’ compensation claim for carpal tunnel syndrome involves several steps. Understanding the workers’ compensation system can help ensure a positive outcome.
Reporting the Carpal Tunnel Injury to Your Employer
The first step in the workers’ comp process is immediately reporting the injury to your employer. In Illinois, employees should notify their employer within 45 days of realizing their condition may be work-related.
It is recommended that they do this in writing, outlining the symptoms and how the job duties contributed to the condition. Prompt reporting is essential, as delays can complicate the claims process and may lead to a denial.
Seeking Medical Evaluation and Diagnosis
Once you have reported the injury to your employer, you must submit an official medical report from a qualified physician who can confirm the diagnosis.
The physician will run nerve conduction studies, electromyography, and ultrasound tests to identify the typical manifestations of carpal tunnel syndrome. This report doesn’t just identify the presence of carpal tunnel syndrome; it also serves to link the symptoms to work-related activities.
Filing the Workers’ Compensation Claim
Once the injury is reported and a medical diagnosis is obtained, the next step is to file the workers’ comp claim. This involves completing the necessary forms, submitting the claim, and waiting for the insurer’s decision in Illinois. Professional attorneys can work with you to help you understand the workers’ compensation system.
Potential Challenges and Delays in the Claims Process
Navigating the workers’ compensation process thoroughly and submitting appropriate documentation will help ensure a smooth process. However, some potential challenges may arise, including:
- Claim Denials: The insurer may deny the claim, arguing that the employee did not develop carpal tunnel syndrome due to repetitive stress injuries or follow the workers’ compensation policy when filing the claim.
- Disputes Over Causation: There may be disputes about whether the job duties contributed to the condition or if other factors, such as hobbies or pre-existing conditions, caused it.
- Delays in Receiving Benefits: There may be delays in receiving the benefits, impacting the worker’s ability to pay medical expenses or cover lost wages.
The Role of a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Given the long-winded administrative process, many workers benefit from the assistance of an experienced attorney when submitting workers’ compensation claims for carpal tunnel syndrome.
A workers’ compensation attorney can assist you with the claim by gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, representing you in hearings, and maximizing your compensation.
Tips for a Successful Carpal Tunnel Workers’ Comp Claim
To increase their chances of a successful compensation claim for carpal tunnel syndrome, workers should document their injury and symptoms thoroughly, communicate with their employer and insurer, and follow any medical advice a qualified clinician provides.
Following these steps will ensure compliance with the legal process and increase their chances of approval.
Prevention and Ergonomics in the Workplace
While it’s essential to understand how to file a claim and secure compensation, prevention is equally crucial for carpal tunnel syndrome. Workers and employers should prioritize workplace ergonomics to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome cases.
Contact an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer!
If you have experienced carpal tunnel syndrome due to work-related activities, seeking workers’ compensation benefits may provide the financial support you need to manage the condition effectively, pay medical expenses, and return to work.
However, navigating the claims process can be complex and challenging. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help guide you through each step and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are passionate about helping you through this process and securing the compensation you deserve. With this compensation, you can feel confident in your ability to support yourself and secure any medical treatment you need in your recovery.
Call us at (888) 424-5757 or fill out our online form.
References: [1] NCBI