Most people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome, and they may know someone who suffers from it. Many, however, may not understand exactly what it is or how it is caused. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a type of repetitive stress injury that is a very common work-related problem.
It results from pressure or stress placed on the median nerve in the wrist area. The nerve is housed in the carpal tunnel, which runs at the base of the hand and is composed of ligaments and bones. When the nerve is squeezed, it may cause the loss of sensation in the thumb, tingling, pain and loss of function in the affected wrist and hand.
In a work environment, carpal tunnel syndrome may result from employees who use hand tools as a part of their jobs. People whose jobs involve repetitive motion of the fingers and hands, such as that required by such activities as typing, may also be at an increased risk of the injury. Assembly line workers are also at a heightened risk of developing the syndrome. Treatment may involve resting the hands for weeks, stretching, exercising and surgical intervention. Carpal tunnel surgery is among the most common surgeries performed around the country.
People who have developed carpal tunnel syndrome due to the requirements of their jobs should file claims for workers' compensation benefits. The insurance is mandated coverage that employers must carry in order to provide protection for workers who are injured on the job. Through a claim, an injured worker may recover costs to pay for their medical expenses, rehabilitation needs and ongoing treatment. If an injury renders an employee unable to work, benefits may be available on an ongoing basis to replace a portion of his or her income. Victims may want to seek the assistance of a workplace injury attorney.
Source: National Institutes of Health, "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet", Sept. 5, 2014
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