Carpal Tunnel and Your Job

The use of your hands is necessary for just about everything you do. When you start having pain in your hands, or you start losing grip strength, it can cause a ripple effect throughout your life. The doctor diagnoses you with carpal tunnel syndrome and then suggests that your job may have something to do with the issue. Take a look at how your profession may have contributed or caused your hands to hurt.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is something that affects people who perform repetitive movements of the hands regularly. The median nerve runs up a narrow passageway from the wrist. When enough pressure is placed on it, the nerve becomes compressed and affects hand movements. The more compressed the nerve is, the worse the condition is.

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are unique to the condition. The most obvious at the onset is numbness and tingling in the fingers. As the nerve continues to be compressed, the symptoms get worse. The hands begin to get achy. You may wake up with pain and numbness in the morning, believing you slept wrong. It is likely the median nerve compression causing it. You may start to lose grip strength in the hand, which may cause further issues with performing your work functions. An Iowa workers compensation claim may be suitable to file if work becomes too much of a strain.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Doctors typically treat carpal tunnel conservatively at first. Anti-inflammatory medications and support braces are the first lines of treatment. You may need to change your job to avoid the strain on your hands. Physical therapy may also be prescribed to control pain and relieve the pressure on the nerve. The last intervening measure is surgery. During a carpal tunnel release procedure, the medial compartment is cleaned, and the nerve released from impingement.

If you suspect that your regular work duties may have caused your development of carpal tunnel syndrome, a workers’ compensation attorney may be able to guide you through the process.