Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition affecting a person’s hands and wrists, causing tingling, numbness, and pain. The disease is caused by pinching or compression of the median nerve, which runs the arm’s length. One common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is repetitive tasks or working in occupations that require constant hand and wrist movement. For example, a person who types on a computer keyboard all day or works on an assembly line doing the same action every day could be at greater risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Is Carpal Tunnel Covered?
Because carpal tunnel syndrome is due to repetitive movements in specific jobs, a common question is whether the condition qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits. While it is commonly covered, eligibility for benefits varies by state and the specific circumstances of the onset of the illness.
In California, workers’ compensation benefits coverage for carpal tunnel is the same as with other illnesses or injuries in that it depends on whether it can be verified that the primary cause of the condition stems from your work activities or conditions. In addition, since California considers carpal tunnel an occupational disease, a claimant must meet specific criteria, including:
- Your job requires repetitive motion, exertion of pressure or force of your hands, or regular use of vibrating tools.
- You reported your condition to your employer and sought medical treatment right away.
- You provided medical evidence from a doctor’s diagnosis supporting your claim that your condition is work-related.
What Can Go Wrong With Carpal Tunnel Claims
Even though carpal tunnel syndrome is a common work-related ailment, a few things can go wrong in claims. First, employers and insurance providers may argue that pre-existing conditions or non-work-related activities contributed significantly. In those cases, additional medical evidence, such as medical reports and diagnostic test results, may be required to verify the connection between the condition and the workplace.
Common Treatments for Carpal Tunnel
Depending on the severity when diagnosed, treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome varies. Typically, treatments include:
- Rest and avoidance of activities that worsen the symptoms
- Use a wrist splint to keep the wrist in a neutral position, including while sleeping.
- Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections to lessen pain and reduce inflammation.
- Hand and wrist exercises that strengthen and stretch the affected area. Physical or occupational therapy may also be prescribed.
Carpal Tunnel Can Get Worse, So Don’t Wait
As with any work-related injury, illness, or accident, if you believe you have developed carpal tunnel syndrome due to your job duties, you should immediately report it to your employer. Once the injury is documented, you may want to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can explain your rights and options. California’s workers’ compensation system can be complex to navigate, and your chances of getting covered for carpal tunnel are greatly improved if you secure legal representation.
Call Eason & Tambornini at (916) 438-1819 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
