Carpel Tunnel Claims

Carpel tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common work related upper limb disorders (WRULD). It usually affects the hands and arms and causes pain, itching, numbness and discomfort. Workers that lift heavy objects, that are engaged in manual handling or those that use vibrating tools are more likely to be affected by carpel tunnel syndrome or vibrating white fingers (VWF) than other people. Workers who are affected by carpel tunnel syndrome (CTS) due to the insufficient health care provided by their employers in the workplace can make carpel tunnel compensation claims.

If you are a victim of CTS, then consult us about your case. Call our fair, experienced team for free on 08000 430 430. Alternatively, complete our online enquiry form to request a call back.

Causes of CTS

Workplace carpel tunnel arises due to the repetitive movements of arms and hands while people perform specific tasks. Repetitively operating vibrating tools, uncomfortably lifting heavy loads and using strong grips can also lead to CTS. Such workplace practices can cause compression of the median nerve, which results in CTS.

Some non-occupational factors that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome are:

• Use of Alcohol,
• Infections,
• Bone fractures,
• Diabetes,
• Obesity, and
• Wrist tumors.

Different occupations and related job tasks with high risk of carpel tunnel syndrome are:

• Baking,
• Painting,
• Woodworking,
• Drilling,
• Welding,
• Sewing,
• Knitting,
• Mining,
• Vehicle manufacturing and repairing, and
• Farming.

Symptoms of CTS

Common symptoms of carpel tunnel syndrome are:

• Tingling and numbness in the fingers and hands,
• Weakness and pain in affected areas,
• Aching in forearms, in elbows and in wrists,
• Stiffness in fingers,
• Loss of gripping strength,
• Loss of sensation in affected hands, arms or fingers.

Diagnoses of CTS

To check weather a person is suffering from carpel tunnel syndrome, doctors or expert physicians should perform the following:

• Detailed study of the patient’s medical history
• Complete physical examination,
• X-ray of affected hand, wrist and arm,
• Electromyogram test to identify muscle damage,
• Study of nerve conduction.

Treatment of CTS

Carpel tunnel syndrome can be treated through different neurosurgical therapies, including non-surgical treatments, medicine and surgery.

Medicines

Neurosurgical therapy can be used to treat CTS in cases of early diagnosis. Different methods used in neurosurgical therapy include wrist splitting and use of corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Exercise

In case of mild symptoms of carpel tunnel syndrome, doctors can suggest some exercises to help the patient overcome the problem. Such stretching and strengthening exercises can help in treating the physical impairments of patient.  Acupuncture, yoga and chiropractic care are some treatment therapies that are used to improve grip strength and that can reduce pain in CTS sufferers.

Surgery

Surgery is one of the options to treat severe carpel tunnel syndrome. The purpose of surgery is to reduce the pressure on median nerve by removing the ligament compressing the nerve. Endoscopic surgery and open surgery are types of surgery used to treat CTS.

Employers’ Responsibilities

Employers have a duty to provide risk-free, safe working environments for all workers. Workplace carpel tunnel syndrome can be prevented by ensuring safety measures are put in place. Employers should carry out risk assessments at workplaces to identify potential workplace hazards that could cause CTS. Eliminating manual handling practices and providing mechanical lifting tools can reduce the chances of people suffering from CTS. Moreover, employers should provide suitable protective equipment and proper training to employees to eliminate CTS.

Carpel Tunnel Compensation Claim

If any worker becomes the victim of carpel tunnel syndrome at the workplace because of their employer’s negligence, then they can make a compensation claim against their employer. The employer would be liable to cover all physical, emotional and financial damages faced by their employee due to CTS.  If you or anyone you know has suffered carpel tunnel syndrome because of working conditions or working tasks, then you must consult a specialist industrial disease solicitor about your case.

We have vast experience of dealing with industrial disease claims such as carpel tunnel syndrome compensation claims. So do not wait to make a compensation claim for your industrial disease – hire our expert services today! Call us on 08000 430 430 or complete our online enquiry form to request a call back.