Repetitive stress injuries are typical with certain jobs. Perhaps the most common is carpal tunnel syndrome. If you develop this condition, it’s unlikely that you will have the right to sue your employer. Instead, you will probably need to make a workers’ compensation claim over your injury with the help of experienced workers’ compensation lawyers. Here’s a quick guide to this sensitive topic.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
When the median nerve and tendons used to flex your fingers get overused, they sometimes become compressed in the wrist area known as the carpal tunnel. This zone is extremely narrow, so even tiny amounts of swelling can create severe complications, including numbness, weakness, and pain. Carpal tunnel syndrome typically develops due to repeated fast motions, such as using a cash register or handling slicers, although typing is one of the most common causes. Physical elements, such as age and weight, can contribute to the odds of developing this condition. Diabetes and arthritis can also increase your possibility of suffering.
Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Fixing carpal tunnel syndrome begins with wearing a splint and abstaining from the motion that caused the inflammation. More serious instances require steroid injections, and, under worse case scenarios, surgery becomes necessary. When this happens, a surgeon slices through the ligament so that the tendons have more space to move and are less likely to get inflamed.
Getting Compensated for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome treatments are often expensive. You’ll need funds to cover your medical expenses and lost wages. To make a successful workers’ compensation claim, you need to prove that your injury was sustained as a result of work duties. There’s a good possibility that your employer’s insurance will argue that another factor caused your injury. For instance, a second job involving similar movements could be a complicating factor, as might recreational activities such as tennis. Similarly, pre-existing conditions make it more difficult to get the money you require.
In some states, carpal tunnel syndrome is considered a workplace accident. In others, it is labeled an occupational disease. While this may seem like a distinction without a difference, it must be classified to determine the type of proof you need. A workers’ compensation lawyer is best prepared to gather and prepare evidence to meet these unique standards.
It’s distressing when carpal tunnel syndrome causes discomfort and prevents you from living life to the fullest. It’s even worse when you’re denied the restitution you deserve. Hiring workers’ compensation lawyers like Cohen & Cohen, P.C. will better your chances of receiving a payout.