Created by renowned Harvard health care professionals. 
Workers comp carpal tunnel claims are common because repetitive hand use at work is one of the main triggers of the condition. Repetitive stress activities bring on Carpal Tunnel Strain which can lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in people predisposed genetically for the Syndrome. Any activity that requires vigorous repeated hand use will often lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Below is a list of common occupations and activities that have been identified with a high incidence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Most people associate the onset of Carpal Tunnel with the long-term use of computers for hours each day, however while many people who work on computers have a high incidence of Carpal Tunnel, hundreds of other professions also have a high rate of encountering the Carpal Tunnel Condition.
Jobs and Activities Linked to Workers Comp Carpal Tunnel Claims
- Typing / Computer work
- Sorting mail / Courier Services
- Meat cutting
- Driving vehicles
- Tool handling
- Machinist / Mechanics
- Construction work
- Landscaping
- Homemaking / Needlepoint
- Grocery checking
- Musicians, Pianist, Violinist
- Golfers
- Carpenters
- Chefs
- Massage Therapists
- Tennis Players
Common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome follows:
- Pain and weakness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the forearm.
- Poor circulation, numbness, hands fall asleep regularly, loose sensation in fingers and grip strength.
- Dropping objects, forearm pain, inhibits use of hands.
- Symptoms increase at night when the hand is relaxed interrupting sleep.
These symptoms often lead to accidents and declines in quality at work if people are slow to pick up on the symptoms and proactively prevent the progression of the Syndrome.
Is Carpal Tunnel Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often linked to repetitive hand use, so many people start looking into a workers comp carpal tunnel claim when their symptoms begin to affect their job. Whether a specific claim is accepted depends on your state’s rules, your employer’s insurer and the medical evidence that your work activities contributed to the condition. Private-sector employees usually file through their state workers’ compensation board, and the U.S. Department of Labor explains where to start.
Steps for a Workers Comp Carpal Tunnel Claim
- Report your symptoms to your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing, and keep a copy.
- See a doctor and describe your daily job tasks, so the medical record shows the connection between your work and your symptoms.
- File your claim following your state’s rules and deadlines, which vary and can be strict.
- Keep records of appointments, treatments, prescriptions and any time missed from work.
- Ask the insurance adjuster, in writing, which treatments are covered and how to request approval for the one your doctor recommends.
Every state sets its own deadlines and procedures, so check with your state workers’ compensation board or a qualified attorney before you file.
How to Get Workers Comp to Cover Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Once your claim is open, the next question is which treatment the insurer will approve. First Hand Medical states that workers’ compensation insurance can cover The Carpal Solution, a doctor-developed nighttime stretching treatment. Ask your doctor whether they would recommend a conservative, non-invasive option before surgery, and read our guide to health insurance reimbursement to see the documentation that is typically requested. You can also learn how The Carpal Solution works and check who is at risk of carpal tunnel to see whether your job is on the list.
Workers Comp Carpal Tunnel: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get workers comp for carpal tunnel from typing or computer work?
It is possible. Typing and computer work are among the activities commonly linked to carpal tunnel, but each claim is decided on its own facts, so documentation from your doctor matters.
How long do I have to file a workers comp carpal tunnel claim?
Deadlines depend on your state and can be short, so report your symptoms to your employer right away and contact your state workers’ compensation board to confirm the time limit that applies to you.
