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.
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:
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.
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.
If your claim is approved, you could get several benefits, including:
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:
Navigating these challenges often requires detailed evidence and understanding of Illinois workers’ compensation laws—something that can feel overwhelming without support.
To increase your odds of successfully claiming workers’ compensation benefits for work-related CTS, here’s what you can do:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.