Carpal Tunnel Injuries in Workers’ Compensation Cases

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects thousands of workers across various industries. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. This compression can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, which can impact a person’s ability to perform even the simplest tasks.

For individuals who develop carpal tunnel syndrome as a result of their job, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to help cover medical treatment and lost wages. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome due to repetitive work activities, it is important to understand your rights under California workers’ compensation laws.

What Causes Work-Related Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by repetitive motions that put stress on the wrist. Workers who engage in tasks such as typing, using hand tools, operating machinery, or even repetitive lifting are at higher risk of developing this condition. For example:

• Office workers who type for prolonged periods without proper ergonomic support.
• Construction workers who use vibrating tools or perform heavy lifting regularly.
• Manufacturing employees whose jobs require repetitive gripping or pinching motions.

These repetitive motions can cause the tendons in the wrist to swell, leading to pressure on the median nerve. Over time, this can result in the painful and debilitating symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If your carpal tunnel injury is work-related, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, proving that CTS is related to your job can be challenging. Employers or insurance companies may argue that the condition is caused by outside factors, such as a pre-existing medical condition or personal activities.

To strengthen your claim, it is critical to document your symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible, and report the injury to your employer. In California, you must notify your employer of a work-related injury within 30 days, and you have one year from the date of injury to file a claim. However, the sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be.

How Workers’ Compensation Can Help

If your carpal tunnel syndrome is deemed work-related, you may be entitled to several benefits under California’s workers’ compensation system, including:

• Medical care: All necessary and reasonable medical treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, medications, and doctor visits.
• Temporary disability payments: Compensation for lost wages if you are unable to work while recovering from your injury.
• Permanent disability payments: Compensation if your injury results in permanent limitations or loss of function.
• Vocational rehabilitation: Assistance in retraining or finding new employment if you are unable to return to your previous job.

It is important to note that you do not need to prove that your employer was at fault to receive workers’ compensation benefits. As long as your injury is job-related, you are eligible for these benefits, regardless of fault.

Challenges in Carpal Tunnel Workers’ Compensation Claims

While workers’ compensation laws are designed to help injured workers, carpal tunnel syndrome claims can face challenges. Insurance companies may argue that CTS is not directly caused by work activities or that the condition existed before the job. Additionally, symptoms can develop gradually over time, making it harder to pinpoint when the injury occurred.

In these cases, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make a significant difference. An attorney can help you gather the necessary medical evidence, navigate the workers’ compensation process, and make sure your rights are protected.

Seeking Legal Help

If you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and believe it is linked to your job, seeking legal guidance can help you get the compensation you need. The workers’ compensation process can be complex, and it is common for claims to be denied or delayed. Working with a knowledgeable attorney who understands California workers’ compensation laws can help you avoid common pitfalls and increase your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.

At the Law Offices of Norman J. Homen, we have extensive experience assisting workers with carpal tunnel injuries. Our team will work with you to gather the necessary documentation, represent you throughout the claims process, and advocate for your rights every step of the way.

If you have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and believe it is related to your job, contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to help you understand your options and guide you through the workers’ compensation process.