Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome can be painful and impede your ability to work and perform daily tasks. If you’re suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome that is work-related, you may file a workers’ compensation claim, but you must prove your job caused your injury. Our workers’ compensation lawyers at Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, have helped workers in the greater NYC area obtain the benefits they need and deserve for more than 30 years. We help you understand your rights and act as your staunch advocates after an on-the-job injury.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a passageway on the inside of your wrist that is surrounded by ligaments and bones. The median nerve runs through this narrow tunnel, and when it is compressed, it can cause numbness, weakness, and pain in the hand and wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by repetitive motions of the hand and wrist and other factors, such as hormonal changes, age, gender, injury, and diabetes.
If you notice any of the following symptoms in your hands, wrists, or arms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as you can.
- Pain ranging from dull and mild to severe
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Burning
- Weakness
- Loss of fine motor coordination
Who Is at Risk for Developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at Work?
Many jobs require repetitive motion of the hands and wrists. Using equipment that vibrates, tasks that require a strong grip, and activities that involve awkward hand motions all can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Jobs and industries in which this condition is often seen include:
- Manufacturing/assembly line
- Carpentry
- Construction work involving vibrating tools and repetitive motion
- Sewing
- Hairstyling
- Baking
- Running a cash register
- Deli and meat cutting
- Work that requires use of a keyboard and mouse
- Gardening and landscaping
- Painting
- Locksmith
- Mechanic
- Welding
- Electrical work
Although it’s rare, carpal tunnel syndrome can sometimes occur when performing a task for a short amount of time. It also can be caused or exacerbated by activities such as knitting, playing stringed instruments, weeding, playing video games, texting, and other tasks.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Under New York workers’ compensation law, carpal tunnel syndrome is a compensable occupational disease. Because carpal tunnel syndrome develops over time and can be caused by non-work-related activities, proving it was caused by your job duties can be challenging. That’s why it’s important to seek the counsel of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer if you need to file a claim.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and want to seek medical care, notify your employer in writing as soon as possible. Waiting to report your injury can delay the vital medical treatment you need and drag out the workers’ compensation claims process. You’ll have to give an approximate date of when your symptoms started. For an occupational disease, notice must be provided within two years from the date you first knew you had the disease.
To file your claim with the New York Workers’ Compensation Board, you must complete and submit Form C-3. Within ten days of receiving notification of your carpal tunnel syndrome, your employer should report the claim to the state board and their insurance carrier.
Medical treatment must be provided by a doctor authorized by the Workers’ Compensation Board. You also should talk to your employer, as they may require you to get treatment, diagnostic testing, and medications from providers who participate in their Preferred Provider Organization (PPO).
Why Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
Because work-related carpal tunnel syndrome claims can be difficult to prove, you may want to contact a New York workers’ compensation attorney before you file a claim. A seasoned occupational disease lawyer can evaluate your case and advise you about the most effective way to approach your claim.
Unfortunately, insurers often delay or deny claims involving workplace injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. One way they try to get out of paying benefits is to claim that risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome you may have, such as gender, age, weight, or a pre-existing medical condition, caused your CTS, and that your job-related activities were not a contributing factor.
Your workers’ compensation lawyer can use your medical records and other evidence to develop a strategy to try to prove a causal link between your job duties and carpal tunnel syndrome. If you’ve already filed a claim that’s been denied, they can assist you with an appeal. Having an attorney fight for you can take some of the weight off your shoulders and help you get the care you need.
Contact a Greater NYC Workers’ Compensation Lawyer to Learn More
As the largest workplace injury law firm in Staten Island, Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, is dedicated to helping workers and their families get through tough times. Attorney and partner Rolando Cubela is proud to serve our Spanish-speaking clients. To schedule a case evaluation for your workers’ compensation or social security disability claim, call us at 718-273-9000 or contact us online.
