Carpal tunnel syndrome also know as CTS is a medical condition in which the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. The first symptoms of CTS may appear when trying to sleep. Symptoms include paresthesia (a burning and tingling in the fingers, especially of the thumb and index and middle fingers), numbness, difficulty gripping and making a fist, dropping objects, and weakness. If left untreated, the symptoms may progress, and increasing pain and weakness can further restrict hand function. In the early stages of CTS, individuals often mistakenly blame the tingling and numbness on their sleeping position, thinking their hands have had restricted circulation and are simply “falling asleep”. It is important to note that unless numbness or paresthesia are some of the predominant symptoms, it is unlikely the symptoms are primarily caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. In effect, pain of any type, location, or severity with the absence of significant numbness or paresthesia, is not likely to fall under this diagnosis.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is known as a “hidden disability” because people can do some things with their hands and appear to have normal hand function. However, despite these appearances, those afflicted often live with restricted hand function and/or significant pain.

Many people with carpal tunnel syndrome have gradually appearing symptoms over time. A common factor in developing carpal tunnel symptoms is increased hand use or activity. The relationship between work and CTS is controversial; in many locations workers injured at work are entitled to time off and compensation. Many cases of carpal tunnel syndrome are provoked by repetitive grasping and manipulating activities. The exposure can be cumulative. Symptoms are commonly exacerbated by forceful and repetitive use of the hand and wrists in industrial occupations, including jack hammer operators, meat packers, computer users and musicians. In the U.S., for instance, carpal tunnel syndrome is the biggest single contributing factor to lost time at work. Carpal tunnel syndrome results in billions of dollars of workers compensation claims every year.

Klezmer Maudlin is proud to offer free telephone and email consultations. If you believe you have carpal tunnel syndrome and believe your condition is the result of a work-related injury, please contact us for a free consultation. Our attorneys are known for their thorough investigation and dedication to their clients’ cases.

If you’ve been diagnosed with work related injuries such as a carpal tunnel syndrome, you can rely on the accomplished Indiana workers’compensation attorneys at Klezmer Maudlin.