After years of computer use at work, I have developed carpal tunnel syndrome. Is it worth filing for workers’ compensation?

While you may have some preconceived notions about what a workers’ compensation injury looks like, you probably only have a narrow view. Most people envision a catastrophic accident—or at the very least, a slip-and-fall—that results in a serious injury, leading the victim to file for workers’ compensation benefits.

The very nature of workers’ compensation, however, is to protect employees who are injured in the scope of their work. Does this include injuries that may occur over time at work, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain injuries? You bet.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and How Can it Affect Your Ability to Work?

Our bodies are not meant to take the stress of repeated motions, and whether you are typing too feverishly or gripping a handle too tightly, years of the same daily stress can take its toll. Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common repetitive strain injuries, and occurs when a major nerve running into your hand becomes pinched and compressed in your wrist.

Most people who begin to notice a tingling in their hands probably think nothing of it, and even when it develops into a more pointed burning sensation or total numbness, they may brush it off. They assume that their injury is something they developed naturally, and use their own insurance to cover treatment or physical therapy to alleviate their pain.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can progress to the point where you are unable to do your job, and if your carpal tunnel is a direct result of that job, you will be able to file a workers’ compensation claim to cover your medical costs and lost wages while you are recover. While you may not have been injured in a terrible accident, any injury that you receive at work—especially one that impacts your ability to continue working—deserves care and compensation.

Have You Been Injured At Work?

If you’ve been injured on the job you need to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Augusta office directly at 706.863.6600 to schedule your free consultation.