We know that the last thing you want to think about is a work-related injury. You may not think about work injuries often, especially if you do not work in a high-risk industry such as construction or law enforcement. Unfortunately, though, workplace injuries arise in all work industries and they do not always look the same.
Today, we want to look at repetitive stress injuries (also known as cumulative trauma injuries). The workers’ compensation claim rates for these injuries have grown by 50 percent since 2008. That is a significant jump.
Are more people getting injured or is there just more aware of how devastating these injuries can be? One of the most well-known repetitive stress injuries is carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by repetitive motions such as typing or other wrist movements over a period of time.
If you need an experienced carpal tunnel syndrome attorney in San Diego, you can count on Hiden, Rott & Oertle, LLP to be by your side.
WHAT IS IT?
Carpal tunnel, along with other repetitive stress injuries arise from the repetition of job tasks over an extended period of time. It can happen over time in the workplace due to:
- Typing
- Assembly line work
- Use of vibrating tools
2.7 percent of the population in the US suffers from carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms include frequent numbing, burning, tingling in the palm of the hand and fingers. It can progress to a decrease in grip strength and muscle loss at the base of the thumb. People who suffer from carpal tunnel often find it difficult to perform their work-related tasks, something that can be financially devastating.
In the workplace, employers themselves can go a long way in preventing carpal tunnel syndrome. They can allow employees to take regularly scheduled breaks and encourage stretching of the hands and wrists. They can also train employees on using correct form and posture while working.
Because carpal tunnel takes a while to develop, workers may get some pushback when trying to file a workers’ compensation claim as it may be harder to prove the injury is work-related. There have even been instances of employees losing their jobs shortly after reporting a repetitive stress injury.
Do you know what to do if this happens to you?
WHAT YOU CAN DO
If you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, then we know how painful it can be. It can be tough to prove that carpal tunnel happened due to your work environment, but that does not mean you should forego filing a workers’ compensation claim. At Hiden, Rott & Oertle, LLP, we want to make sure you are treated fairly and that you get the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses as well as lost income. If you have been fired from a job and you suspect it has to do with reporting your injury, we want to help you with that as well. When you need the best San Diego carpal tunnel syndrome attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling our office.