Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive Stress Injuries May Be Covered by Workers’ Compensation

Repetitive stress injury (RSI) is a term that describes a range of conditions affecting the muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. As the name suggests, these injuries are caused by frequent and repetitive use of a particular part of the body. One of the most common examples of an RSI is carpal tunnel syndrome, which is caused by repetitive hand motions like typing, which can compress the nerve in the carpal tunnel, causing a narrowing of the passageway on the palm side of the wrist.

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, workers suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome often miss days of work or are unable to carry out their daily work responsibilities. A skilled Workers’ Compensation lawyer will thoroughly explain the benefits you are entitled to and recommend the best legal course of action if you are suffering from a work injury.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms generally start gradually and can become more intense over time if left untreated. The most common symptoms include the following:

• Tingling or numbness: Most people begin to experience tingling and numbness in their fingers, with the exception of the little finger. In some cases, people may experience a sensation similar to an electric shock. It is not uncommon for the tingling sensation to travel from the wrist up the arm.
• Weakness: When the carpal nerve is compressed, people can experience a weakness in the hand. Numbness can also cause people to drop objects that they are holding.

Risk Factors Associated With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Wrist Issues: Previous wrist injuries, like a fracture or dislocation can cause carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as arthritis that affects the wrist. People who have smaller carpal tunnels are generally more prone to carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Gender: Women are more likely to get carpal tunnel syndrome due to the fact that they tend to have smaller carpal tunnels.
• Conditions that affect nerves: Certain diseases, like diabetes, can increase the risk of nerve damage to the median nerve.
• Inflammatory conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common examples of inflammatory diseases that can affect the lining around the tendons of the wrist. This can put pressure on the median nerve.
• Workplace factors: Research suggests that certain repetitive tasks, like typing, flexing of the wrist, or the use of vibrating tools can put harmful pressure on the median nerve.

How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Not all cases of carpal tunnel syndrome can be prevented, but there are steps workers can take to reduce the stress placed on the hands and wrists, including the following:

• Use less force when hitting keys
• Relax your grip
• Take frequent breaks to stretch
• Alternate tasks
• Use correct posture
• Use a computer mouse that is comfortable for your wrist
• Keep hands warm, and use fingerless gloves if you work in a cold environment

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

When an injury is work-related, the employee is eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits. That includes RSIs like carpal tunnel syndrome. Benefits include compensation for medical treatment, prescription medications, equipment needed to treat the injury, lost wages, and disability. A Workers’ Compensation lawyer can walk you through the claims process and ensure that you meet all the necessary deadlines. If your injury causes you to miss days of work, your lawyer will explain the maximum weekly benefit amount that you are eligible to receive based on the severity of your injury.

Wilmington Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Obtain Maximum Benefits for Workers Suffering From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome resulting from repetitive tasks performed at work, you are urged to contact the Wilmington Workers’ Compensation lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC. We will help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive the maximum financial benefits you deserve. We are committed to protecting the rights of injured workers and will not stop fighting for you until you are completely satisfied. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 302-888-1221 or 215-569-8488 or contact us online. Our offices are located in Philadelphia, Haddonfield, New Jersey, and Wilmington, Delaware, and we assist clients across Dover, Middletown, and Newark, Delaware.