When you think of a workplace injury, you may think about something that happens immediately due to an accident. For example, someone falling off a ladder at work may break a bone right away. However, not all on-the-job injuries happen like this.
Some injuries develop over a long period of time. One of the most common examples is carpal tunnel syndrome. Here is an overview of how you may get carpal tunnel syndrome at work and what you should do about it.
Causes
A lot of work tasks may result in carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Typing on a keyboard
- Pushing a cart
- Using a cash register
- Slicing food
Almost any type of repetitive motion can cause this injury, especially if you do not get sufficient rest or breaks.
Symptoms
Common signs of this repetitive stress injury include:
- Tingling or burning numbness in your index finger, middle finger, thumb or the palm of your hand
- Pain and/or weakness in your hand and/or wrist
- Numbness that goes up to your shoulder
However, sometimes this condition is more severe. According to an article published on the U.S. National Library of Medicine website, serious forms of carpal tunnel syndrome may significantly impair motor function, reduce nerve impulses, loss of the ability to pinch and a loss of feeling in the fingers.
Treatment
If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, your doctor may try different treatments depending on the severity of it. Sometimes resting, wearing a wrist brace and receiving corticosteroids may treat it. More serious cases may require physical therapy or surgery.
Compensation
Your job responsibilities may cause you to suffer from this injury. If you believe this is the case, you may be able to get compensation for it. The cost of treatment and lost wages can be significant financial burdens. Talk to a lawyer about filing a workers’ compensation claim for carpal tunnel syndrome.
