Carpal Tunnel and Workers’ Compensation: Is It Covered?

A lot of work-related injuries happen due to sudden accidents. However, in some instances, it may be a long-term injury or condition. Carpal tunnel is a serious repetitive stress injury that can lead to high medical bills. If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, then it could be caused by your job. Here is what you need to know about filing a claim for carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries.

What Jobs Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

When it comes to carpal tunnel, any job that involves repetitive motion could have caused it. This is particularly true for jobs that involve computers. If you’re working on a computer for the job, then the RSI may be caused by your work. In addition, if you carry or lift equipment every day or hold an awkward position, then carpal tunnel might be due to your work. Here are some jobs that cause carpal tunnel:

  • Silkscreen printers
  • Janitors
  • Cashiers
  • Healthcare workers
  • Musicians
  • Athletes

These are not the only occupations that may lead to RSIs. There are many occupations that may lead to the development of the condition.

Can You Make a Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

If you believe that you’re suffering from carpal tunnel, then it’s crucial that you have an examination by a doctor. After your diagnosis, determine whether the RSI was caused by your job. If you believe that your job caused the carpal tunnel, then make sure that you follow the rules of your company’s coverage to report and file a claim. Any injury or illness caused at work is eligible for filing a claim.

Do You Need Proof for Workers’ Compensation?

In many workers’ compensation cases, it’s on the employee to prove that the job caused his or her repetitive stress injury. Most of the time, the employer and the insurance company will fight the claim. They may look for other reasons that can explain your carpal tunnel. They will look into a number of different factors that might cause it. This is because treating carpal tunnel can be expensive. People may have to take an extended leave from work. 

Through medical examinations and with the help of a lawyer, you may be able to prove it.

Workers’ compensation is for any injury that happens on the job. Repetitive stress injuries can be caused while at work. This is particularly true with those who work as cashiers, janitors, musicians and more. If you suffer from carpal tunnel, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney at Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt