Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in the Workplace

If you perform repetitive tasks with your hands for work, you may be at risk of suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. The “carpal tunnel” is a narrow passageway made of ligaments and bones in your wrist that protects the tendons and main nerve in your hand. Over time, repetitive stress from work can cause the tendons to swell, resulting in compression of the nerve. This compression can cause pain, weakness, and numbness in your hand and wrist that may also radiate up your arm.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of numerous WEAR and TEAR injuries. Often the result of repetitive stress at work, it is a treatable but limiting injury that affects millions of people every year – many of whom are entitled to workers’ compensation.

Are You Suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually come on gradually, and many people do not experience symptoms for many years while performing repetitive tasks. If you suspect that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome, it is important to see a doctor so that you can get treatment before your condition worsens.

The first symptom is usually numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. This eventually leads to discomfort in the wrist and hand. Pain may follow, and your symptoms may also become more persistent. You may also experience weakness that makes it difficult not only to perform your job duties, but also to do things as simple as holding a coffee cup or performing chores around the house.

Due to the pain and discomfort, many people who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome also have difficulty sleeping. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to disruption of your normal activities and possibly permanent physical damage.

Is Your Carpal Tunnel Related to Your Work?

For many people, carpal tunnel syndrome is the result of long days spent performing repetitive tasks at work over the course of several months or years. While studies have shown that women suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome at higher rates than men (perhaps because they tend to have smaller carpal tunnels, and as a result are more prone to nerve compression), all workers are at risk for suffering symptoms that put them out of work and may require surgery.

The following work-related repetitive tasks are all commonly associated with carpal tunnel syndrome

• Awkward hand positions
• Pushing or holding that places pressure on the palm
• Repetitive hand motions
• Rotating the wrist
• Strong grasping or gripping
• Vibration from power tools or machinery

If you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome due to work-related activities, you may be able to file for workers’ compensation. To learn more, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.

Contact Petro Cohen, P.C. Today

Petro Cohen, P.C. is a New Jersey law firm that provides experienced representation for workers’ compensation claims relating to carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries. We have offices throughout the state and can arrange to meet with you on your schedule. For more information about filing for workers’ compensation in New Jersey, call (888) 675-7607 or contact us online today.