Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is more than just a mild inconvenience—it’s a painful, sometimes debilitating condition that can severely impact work performance and quality of life. CTS is a real risk for workers who spend long hours typing, using a computer mouse, or performing other repetitive tasks.

But what happens if you suspect your carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by your job? Can Illinois workers’ compensation laws provide support for medical bills, lost wages, or recovery time? Over the last five decades, our team at Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd. has found that the answer is yes, but navigating the process can be tricky. Here’s everything you need to know about your rights, steps to take, and how to protect yourself in the pursuit of compensation.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Who Is at Risk?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed. This compression often results from repetitive hand and wrist motions, leading to symptoms such as:

• Pain in the fingers, hand, or wrist
• Tingling or numbness (especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers)
• Weakness or clumsiness when gripping objects
• Shooting pain from the wrist to the forearm
• Difficulty performing fine motor tasks

CTS is particularly common among workers who engage in repetitive movements over long periods. Research shows that three out of every 1000 people suffer from carpal tunnel each year. This includes office professionals, factory workers, construction laborers, and even drivers relying on constant hand activity.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as an Occupational Disease in Illinois

Illinois recognizes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as an occupational injury. This means employees who develop CTS due to their work tasks may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under Illinois law. Workers’ compensation broadly aims to cover job-related injuries or illnesses, even if no specific accident has occurred.

Understanding Your Potential Workers’ Compensation Benefits

If your claim is approved, you could get several benefits, including:

• Medical Expense Coverage: Full payment for any treatments related to your condition, including surgeries, physical therapy, or medications.
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Wage replacement if your doctor orders you to take time off work.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Compensation if your CTS results in long-term impairment.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Assistance with training for a new job if you can no longer perform your previous role due to permanent limitations.

Challenges in Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for CTS

Despite its classification as an occupational injury, filing for workers’ compensation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome isn’t always straightforward. You may encounter obstacles such as:

• Proving Work-Relatedness: Since CTS often develops gradually, employers or insurers may argue that its causes are unrelated to work. Pre-existing conditions or hobbies utilizing repetitive wrist movements (e.g., knitting or video gaming) may also be cited as alternate causes.
• Delayed Reporting: If symptoms are ignored or unreported for too long, employers may claim that your condition is not related to your job.
• Employer Pushback: Some employers may intentionally deny claims to avoid increased insurance premiums, leaving you to fight for what you’re legally entitled to.

Navigating these challenges often requires detailed evidence and understanding of Illinois workers’ compensation laws—something that can feel overwhelming without support.

Tips to Successfully Navigate the Workers’ Compensation Process

To increase your odds of successfully claiming workers’ compensation benefits for work-related CTS, here’s what you can do:

• Take Your Symptoms Seriously

Don’t ignore early signs of CTS. If you experience pain or numbness in your hand or find that certain tasks become harder to perform, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

• Report Your Condition Promptly

Tell your employer about your condition as soon as you suspect it may be work-related. Document the conversation—ideally in writing—and include key details about the nature of your symptoms and the tasks contributing to them.

• Consult an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Filing a workers’ compensation claim is complicated, especially when facing employer pushback or insurance company objections. An attorney experienced in Illinois workers’ compensation cases can guide you through the process, ensuring all documents are filed properly and your rights are protected.

• Keep Detailed Records

Maintain copies of all medical records, your employer’s accident reports, communication with your supervisor or HR department, and any documentation of work restrictions provided by your doctor.

• Follow Your Treatment Plan

Compliance with your physician’s recommendations is crucial. Whether your doctor prescribes rest, physical therapy, or surgical interventions, ensure you follow through. Failing to adhere to medical advice can harm your case.

Protect Your Rights—We’re Here to Help

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can have a significant impact on your ability to work and your overall quality of life. If you’re dealing with CTS and are struggling to secure workers’ compensation, seeking professional legal help is essential. At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd., we’ve been helping Illinois workers protect their rights and secure benefits for over 40 years.

Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys will walk you through every step of your claim, from gathering medical documentation to representing your interests against employers or insurance companies. Contact us today for personalized attention and support.