Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common wear and tear injury that affects workers across a wide range of industries and professions. People with CTS experience numbness, tingling, and loss of strength and dexterity in their hands. This type of injury is caused by a pinched nerve and compressed tendons in the arm. The term “carpal tunnel" refers to the part of the wrist where the median nerve and tendons travel through.
Workers who use a mouse and keyboard to perform most of their duties tend to commonly suffer from CTS. However, workers who use heavy machinery or repeat various motions with their hands and arms also experience this type of injury.
Risks of CTS
Doctors have identified several risk factors that can contribute to CTS injuries. These factors include:
- Anatomy: A fractured or dislocated wrist can affect the space inside the carpal tunnel, which creates pressure on the median nerve and tendon.
- Sex: Because the carpal tunnel area is smaller in women than in men, CTS tends to occur more frequently with women.
- Serious Health Conditions: Diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis have been known to increase the risk of CTS injuries.
- Environmental Factors: Heavy machinery and tools that vibrate can cause nerve damage in the wrist. Numerous studies have shown that frequent use of a computers and keyboards can cause CTS.
The following occupations are most at risk for sustaining CTS injuries:
- Assembly Line Workers
- Athletes
- Chefs
- Computer Workers
- Construction Workers
- Cyclists
- Dentists
- Electricians
- Grocery Store Workers
- Medical Professionals
- Musicians
- Police Officers
- Retail Workers
- Secretaries
- Teachers
- Truck Drivers
- Writers
What Are the Symptoms of CTS?
Symptoms of CTS include:
- Pain or discomfort in your wrist and hand
- Numbness / tingling in your fingers
- Numbness / tingling sensation extending up your arm
- Frequently dropping objects due to weakness in your hand
How Do Doctors Treat CTS Injuries?
Anti-inflammatory medications and wrist splints are usually prescribed by doctors to treat mild or moderate CTS. If this treatment doesn’t work, cortisone injections might be prescribed to provide temporary relief. In serious cases of CTS, surgery has been known to effectively treat the damaged nerves.
Get Help With Your Injury Claim
Our legal team at The Law Office of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC are dedicated to helping injured workers in San Antonio obtain fair compensation for their work-related injuries. We can discuss your concerns and explain what rights you have as an injured worker. Let us put our skills to work for you today.
Call (210) 807-3178 to request a free consultation with a San Antonio workers’ compensation lawyer. We are available 24/7.