Carpel tunnel syndrome is a painful medical condition that affects a person’s hand and wrist. Since the 1990s, it's become an occupational hazard for many workers across a variety of different industries.
If you develop this condition as a result of your job, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in Florida, but you may need to fight for them.
What Are the Occupational Risks for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpel tunnel syndrome is a repetitive movement injury that occurs when the median nerve on the underneath side of the wrist is damaged. It can cause pain in a person’s palm, thumb, fingers, wrist, and the forearm; and in serious cases, weakness and numbness in the hands. This occupational condition develops over time and may make it difficult for a worker to grasp things and to perform his job duties.
Actions that contribute to carpel tunnel include:
- Repetitive hand movements
- Awkward hand or forearm motions
- Strong gripping
- Mechanical stress on the palm
- Excessive typing and using a computer mouse
- Holding vibrating hand tools
- Flexing and extending the wrist
- Pushing, slicing, and pressing objects
Individuals in many different occupations are at high risk for developing carpel tunnel syndrome, including:
- People who frequently use computers
- Sewers and tailors
- Farmers
- Assembly-line workers
- Mechanics
- Gardeners and landscapers
- Bakers
- Janitors
- Musicians
- Cashiers
- Butchers and other meat-processing workers
- Electrical industry workers
- Painters
- Carpenters
Your Right to Workers’ Compensation for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
Under Florida’s workers’ compensation laws, you're entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to pay for necessary medical treatments and to replace your lost wages while off work.
However, you need to be careful not to accidentally give up your right to benefits. For example, some supervisors tell employees suffering with this disorder to seek treatment under an employer’s health insurance plan instead of filing the more appropriate workers' compensation claim. By seeking treatment outside of workers’ comp, you could jeopardize your right to benefits.
Our knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorneys can explain your options, file your claim, and ensure you receive all the benefits you deserve. Take advantage of our free initial consultation to learn more. Call our Ormond Beach office today to schedule your appointment.
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