Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

 Posted on November 21, 2022 in Workers' Compensation

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that can develop due to repetitive motions of the wrists and hands. The condition occurs when a person experiences compression or pressure on the median nerve, an important neural pathway that runs through a small space in the wrist known as the carpal tunnel. If you have developed this condition as a result of your job, you may be wondering if you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome typically manifests as pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands and fingers. The symptoms are often worse at night and may cause difficulty sleeping. Other symptoms can include weakness in the hands and loss of grip strength. Symptoms typically develop gradually over time, but they can also come on suddenly if nerves become severely compressed.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Causes

Carpal tunnel syndrome is most often caused by repeated motions of the wrists and hands, such as typing for long periods of time, using hand tools, or manipulating small objects. Jobs that require these types of motions on a regular basis, such as office work, auto repair, or other positions that involve fine motor skills, can sometimes cause or aggravate carpal tunnel issues. However, other factors can contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, including injuries to the wrist resulting in sprains or fractures, pituitary or thyroid issues, pregnancy, menopause, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Workers' Comp for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

In order to receive workers’ compensation benefits following a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, you will need to prove that your job duties played a direct role in causing or aggravating your condition. In general, this will require medical evidence from a qualified healthcare professional diagnosing you with carpal tunnel syndrome and documenting how your job duties contributed to the development or worsening of your symptoms. 

If you can demonstrate that your condition is work-related, you will be able to receive medical benefits that cover all forms of treatment you receive. This may include surgery, physical therapy, medications, or any other types of care to help address your symptoms and ensure that you can regain function in your hands and fingers. If carpal tunnel concerns have temporarily or permanently affected your ability to work, you may also qualify for disability benefits. These may include wage differential benefits that pay a percentage of the difference between what you earned prior to your injury and what you are currently able to earn, as well as permanent partial disability benefits that will address irreversible damage that has limited function in the parts of the body that have been affected.

Contact Our Decatur Workers' Comp Lawyers

If you have experienced issues related to carpal tunnel syndrome and are wondering if you can receive workers’ compensation in Illinois, an experienced Champaign workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the claims process. At Kanoski Bresney, we can evaluate your claim and explain your rights under Illinois law, and we will fight to protect your rights to receive the benefits you deserve. Contact us at 888-826-8682 to set up a free consultation today.

Sources:

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-fact-sheet

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/iwcc/Documents/handbook.pdf