Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that results in discomfort, pain, and sometimes disability. This condition can be particularly debilitating if it is caused by the nature of your work.
If you are experiencing symptoms and suspect your work is to blame, it is vital to understand your workers’ compensation rights. At Dixon Law, APC, we are dedicated to helping injured California workers. Our workers’ compensation attorney in Orange County will guide you through the process.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in your wrist, surrounded by bone and ligament. The median nerve, which controls feeling and movement in parts of your hand, passes through this space.
When the median nerve is compressed, you experience carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. These may include:
- Numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
- Pain in the affected hand and wrist
- Weakness in the hand, making gripping difficult
- Worsening symptoms at night
CTS often stems from activities that involve repetitive hand and wrist motions, forceful gripping, awkward hand positions, and exposure to vibrations. Common work-related culprits include:
- Typing or extensive computer/keyboard use
- Assembly line work
- Construction work involving power tools
- Jobs requiring frequent lifting or gripping
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome might start with mild discomfort, but it can worsen over time if left untreated. If you experience persistent symptoms, do not ignore them. A doctor’s evaluation can help you understand the severity of your condition which can help with your work compensation claim.
Proving Work-Caused Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
It can be challenging to prove work caused your CTS, as it can develop from other medical conditions. To substantiate your workers’ compensation claim, you will need to show:
- Medical Diagnosis: Seek diagnosis from a doctor specializing in hand and wrist conditions.
- Work Link: Document your job duties meticulously. Were they repetitive, forceful, etc.? A physician will consider this when connecting your work to the condition.
- Exclusion of Other Causes: Your doctor should be able to rule out other medical causes for your CTS.
Navigating the workers’ compensation system alone can be overwhelming. If you suspect your carpal tunnel syndrome is work-related, immediately report it.
Workers’ Compensation Claims Process for CTS
California has strict time limits for reporting work-related injuries and filing claims. It is crucial to act promptly to protect your right to benefits.
- Report Your Injury: The first and most crucial step is to notify your company’s department supervising compensation claims for your work injury as soon as possible. You have up to 30 days to report a work-related injury in California. Provide details about how you think your work caused or contributed to your CTS.
- Obtain Medical Treatment: They should provide you with a DWC-1 claim form and direct you to a doctor within their medical provider network. Seek medical attention immediately to diagnose your CTS formally and begin treatment. Be sure to tell your doctor that you believe your injury is work-related.
- File Your Claim Form: Fill out the DWC-1 claim form carefully and return it to your company. Keep a copy for yourself. Your company is responsible for submitting the claim to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
- Appeal: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the appeals process and represent you at hearings.
At Dixon Law, APC, our Orange County, CA workers’ compensation lawyer is committed to getting you the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a consultation and let us help you protect your rights as an injured Californian worker.