Can You Get Workers’ Compensation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Yes, you can get workers’ compensation for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Many office workers get it thanks to typing, and people working in industry often get it due to vibrating tools or repetitive motions on an assembly line. 

To win your claim, you must prove that your work activities caused the syndrome or significantly worsened a pre-existing condition. Since so many of us type or use phones outside of work, winning these cases can take time and effort to build a case. 

It’s not impossible, though, especially if you hire a workers’ compensation lawyer in Atlanta to help you with your claim. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into your hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm.

CTS often develops due to repetitive motions or prolonged periods of awkward hand positions. Many jobs involve activities that can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, such as typing, assembly line work, or using vibrating tools.

Understanding the nature of carpal tunnel syndrome and its potential connection to your work is crucial when considering a workers’ compensation claim.

How Can I Prove My Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Work-Related?

You’ll need to demonstrate that your job duties were the primary cause or a significant contributing factor to your condition. As soon as you notice symptoms, notify your employer to start the process, then get a medical evaluation from an approved workers’ comp doctor.

The doctor can diagnose your condition and provide professional opinions on its relation to your work. Explain your job duties thoroughly to your doctor, especially those involving repetitive hand movements or awkward wrist positions. 

Note when you first noticed symptoms and how they relate to your work activities. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive disease that may not cause much harm at first but can be debilitating without treatment.

What Types of Jobs Are Most Likely to Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Due to the nature of their tasks, some jobs carry a higher risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Jobs with repetitive hand movements or those requiring prolonged periods of wrist flexion or extension (bending down or up) are particularly susceptible.

Common high-risk occupations include:

• Data entry specialists and typists
  
• Assembly line workers
  
• Cashiers
  
• Hair stylists
  
• Musicians
  
• Construction workers using vibrating tools

If your job involves repetitive hand motions, forceful gripping, or exposure to vibration, you should take steps now to reduce the chances of aggravating your wrist nerves. This will reduce the risk of developing work-related carpal tunnel syndrome.

Can I Get Workers’ Comp if My Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Developed Gradually?

Yes, you can receive workers’ compensation for carpal tunnel syndrome, even if it develops gradually over time. Many occupational injuries, including CTS, occur due to repetitive stress rather than a single incident.

However, gradual-onset conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome can be more challenging to prove as work-related. Keeping detailed records of your symptoms, when they began, and how they relate to your work activities can create key evidence for your claim. 

An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you build a strong case for a gradual-onset condition. Consider working with one essential if your claim is denied. They can help you with your appeal.

How Long Do I Have to File a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Workers’ Comp Claim?

Generally, you have one year from the date of injury to file a claim. However, for occupational diseases like carpal tunnel syndrome, the clock starts ticking from the date you knew or should have known that your condition was work-related.

In Georgia, you must give your employer notice of an injury within 30 days of its occurrence. For carpal tunnel syndrome, this typically means within 30 days of when you first realized your condition might be work-related.

You might not immediately recognize that your symptoms are work-related. This is why it’s important to seek medical attention promptly when you start experiencing symptoms. A doctor can help you establish a connection between your work and your condition.

What If My Employer Disputes My Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Claim?

It’s not uncommon for employers or their insurance companies to dispute carpal tunnel syndrome claims. They may argue that your condition is not work-related or is due to a pre-existing condition that wasn’t aggravated by your job duties.

You have the right to appeal the decision. During the appeal process, you can present additional medical evidence, expert witness testimony, or statements from coworkers who can attest to your job duties. 

Don’t Let Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Derail Your Career

CTS can be quite painful and prevent you from progressing in your career. If you believe your job has caused or contributed to your CTS, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and should ask for them. 

At John Foy & Associates, our attorneys have helped many victims of occupational injuries win their workers’ compensation claims, even if they were denied. Don’t let carpal tunnel syndrome impact your career or financial stability. 

Contact our Atlanta work injury lawyers today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the benefits you deserve.