Believe it or not, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a serious condition that affects about 3% to 6% of all adults in the United States. It often develops after a nerve in the wrist, the median nerve, becomes irritated by repetitive movement or after an injury. And, while at first the symptoms range from persistent pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand, it can progress to worse symptoms. Mild cases of CTS can be controlled through mild treatments, severe progress in the condition can lead to:
- Slower nerve impulses
- Loss of feeling in the fingers
- Less grip strength
- Significant pain
- Significant muscle cramping
- Loss of coordination
- Permanent muscle damage
- Loss of hand function
CTS is caused by a number of factors, including disease and even pregnancy, however, trauma and repetitive motion are the most common precursors. CTS can be a type of repetitive stress injury (RTI), a condition which is covered by most workers’ compensation insurance. Some work-related activities that can lead to CTS development are:
- Typing
- Assembly line work
- Playing musical instruments
- Using a computer
- Sewing
- Fixing cars
- Painting
- Agricultural work
- Locksmithing
- Cashiering
- Using a vibrating tool
If your doctor diagnoses you with CTS, you may be able to get compensation for your injuries and related losses. However, not all CTS diagnoses will lead to a valid injury claim. A workplace that requires repetitive motions and activities would give you grounds to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, even when you have left the job. RSI can take months or years to develop, and the symptoms may not manifest until after you have left the job. Most states recognize CTS as a compensable medical injury, including New Mexico.
A personal injury lawsuit can also be filed if the condition was unrelated to your occupation, such as getting into a car accident or other traumatic event. It’s quite common for drivers involved in car accidents to later experience traumatic wrist injury. Additionally, Social Security disability can also be another avenue to take if your injury prevents you from working sufficient hours to support yourself and your family.
CTS can lead to serious injury if it goes untreated. Don’t hesitate to seek medical treatment and take time off to heal your median nerve. Getting treatment for the condition will only help your claim if you decide to file by providing medical evidence that your injury is, indeed, severe enough to require regular physical therapy or medication.
If you need assistance in determining whether you’re eligible to file, contact Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law today. Our Albuquerque personal injury attorney can also assist you in filing the CTS claim or appealing a denied claim if the insurance company you’re working with decides your injury is insufficient for compensation. Our attorney has focused his career on helping people get compensation for their injuries, whether they are the result of car accidents, slip and falls, or workplace injuries. Contact us at (505) 219-2176 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case consultation with us today. Let us help you get compensation for your injury.