Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a major issue that affects many people each year. It is a condition that many of us have heard about, but it is still often considered a medical problem that only certain people get. If you perform extensive work with your hands that require, intensive manual dexterity, you will want to be aware of the causes, symptoms and treatment options available for carpal tunnel syndrome. People that spend a lot of time working on computers comprise a large number of patients diagnosed with the condition, namely because typing for long periods of time can aggravate the compression of the median nerve. If you have pain or tingling in your hands or wrists due to your solo duties contact a workers compensation attorney for help.

All businesses are required to carry workers compensation coverage. With respect to office jobs, carpal tunnel syndrome is the number one cause for those claims. That is why it is important to wear proper wrist protection and to use equipment designed to minimize pressure placed on the median nerve. If you work in one of these environments, remember to take regular breaks. Carpal tunnel syndrome is painful and can cause long-term muscle damage in your hands. If the problem persists or remains untreated, it can ultimately lead to the loss of mobility of one’s fingers. Nerve damage is not something you want to mess around with, so be sure to contact a workers’ compensation attorney if you believe is related to your job. The quicker the issue is addressed, the better chance you have of taking care of it.

Carpal Tunnel 101

• The median nerve allows you to experience feeling and movement to the “thumb side” of your hand; when compressed or pinched, the nerve can be damaged. The pain and numbness that occurs as a result is referred to as carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Vibration is a major aggravator of this issue; construction workers who use jackhammers and equipment that shakes the median nerve are put at risk. This is important to mention, because many people falsely believe that carpal tunnel is caused by consistent bending of the wrist.

• Numbness, tingling and pain in the hand, wrist and elbow are all signs that carpal tunnel may be present. Contact your doctor if you notice a lack of strength in your hand; if you are unable to carry or grasp items, this could be indicative of nerve damage.

• Treatment often entails implementing measures to reduce the stress and strain placed on the median nerve; also, your doctor may recommend a change in activities that aggravate the condition. Contact a workers’ compensation attorney immediately if you have developed carpal tunnel on the job.