Proving Your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Work-Related
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) affects millions of people worldwide. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The median nerve is a nerve in the arm that runs from the forearm into the palm. This nerve serves the purpose of controlling certain muscles in the hand and providing sensation to some fingers. When the median nerve is compressed or squeezed, it can result in tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in the hand and arm. CTS can occur due to various reasons, but often, it occurs due to repetitive hand movements and activities. For many people, their work plays a significant role in the development of CTS. Typing is one of the most commonly cited causes of CTS. If someone develops carpal tunnel syndrome due to their work, the workers’ compensation system is in place to protect them. Workers’ compensation provides medical and financial benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses.
How Do You Prove Your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Work-Related?
If you want to pursue a successful workers’ compensation claim for CTS, you must establish that your condition is work-related. In other words, you must show that your job tasks or conditions caused your condition. Below is how you can establish your CTS is work-related;
- Get a Medical Diagnosis
The first thing you need to do to prove that your carpal tunnel syndrome is work-related is to get a proper medical diagnosis from a qualified physician. You cannot proceed to prove your CTS is work-related until you have confirmed that you have developed CTS. A qualified healthcare professional can conduct tests to diagnose CTS. A documented diagnosis from a qualified physician confirms the presence of your condition.
- Work History Documentation
A detailed history of your job duties can help prove your CTS is work-related. Ensure you provide details about your work responsibilities that you believe caused your condition, including repetitive tasks requiring the use of your hands, such as typing, or prolonged use of vibrating tools.
- Witness Testimonies
Witness testimonies are among the strongest evidence you can use in a workers’ compensation case. Statements from coworkers who can attest to, for example, the repetitive nature of your work can help support your claim that your carpal tunnel syndrome is work-related. Coworkers who have noticed your CTS or suffered the same condition can help you prove your condition is work-related.
- Expert Medical Opinions
Getting opinions from medical experts can help prove your CTS is work-related. Experts can provide professional opinions regarding the relationship between your condition and work activities.
Proving your carpal tunnel syndrome is work-related can be challenging. It is best that you seek legal assistance. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the legal process. They can help you gather and present evidence. A skilled attorney can advocate for you every step of the way to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Vermont Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you have developed carpal tunnel syndrome due to your work or have suffered another work-related injury or illness, contact our experienced Vermont workers’ compensation attorney at Sluka Law PLC for legal assistance.
Source:
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603
