Carpal tunnel syndrome is when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel, located at the base of the hand, houses the median nerve and tendons. The median nerves control movement and feeling in your thumb and the first three fingers (not your little finger).
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome usually only occurs in adults. Women are more likely than men to develop the condition. Doctors believe that women are more susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome because their wrists are smaller. Other factors that increase your risk for carpal tunnel syndrome are:
Performing repetitive tasks on the job.
- Diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
- Obesity.
- Pregnancy.
- Wrist injuries and bone spurs.
If you have developed carpal tunnel syndrome after performing repetitive movements at your job, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills and lost wages. Contact an experienced Knoxville workplace injury attorney to discuss your legal options.
Tennessee Workers with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is not limited to just one job or occupational industry. The condition is common among the following occupations:
- Assembly line workers
- Janitors
- Clerical workers
- Butchers
- Painters
- Dentists
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be very costly for a worker. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the average lifetime cost of carpal tunnel syndrome, including medical expenses and lost time from work, is $30,000 per injured worker.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel symptoms usually start gradually in individuals, with burning, tingling and numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers, especially in the thumb, index and middle finger. Many carpal tunnel sufferers feel like their fingers are swollen and useless, even though there is no apparent swelling in the fingers. Symptoms will often first appear at night, while wrists are flexed. As symptoms worsen, people might feel tingling and numbness during the day. Overtime carpal tunnel sufferers will lose their grip strength. If carpal tunnel syndrome goes untreated, the muscles at the bottom of thumb can waste away.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated by many different methods. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with common over the counter pain relievers or oral steroids. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also be help carpal tunnel sufferers. In severe cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery is performed. Full recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome can take months. Some patients have to adjust their job duties after surgery and even after a full recovery, some patients may have to change jobs.
Experienced Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Lawyer
If you have developed carpal tunnel syndrome from performing your job duties, you may be able to file an injury claim. Our Knoxville carpal tunnel syndrome lawyers have the experience and resources necessary to help Tennessee workers file a workplace injury claim. Contact our attorneys today for a free case evaluation.
