Carpal tunnel is a condition that causes serious injury and pain due to the repetitive use of the arm and wrist. If you develop carpal tunnel syndrome and engage in repetitive work on a frequent basis at your place of employment, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. A carpal tunnel workers’ comp lawyer in Wheaton can help you get the benefits you deserve.
At Therman Law, we offer the legal guidance necessary to maximize your claim. Our Wheaton workers’ compensation lawyers have recovered more than $100 million for our clients.
Workers’ Comp for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Illinois
Workers’ compensation provides financial protection from medical bills and some lost wages if you suffer an injury on the job. If you have developed carpal tunnel syndrome and you believe it is from the type of work you do, visit your doctor as the first step. Then, contact our Wheaton personal injury lawyers for assistance.
Typically, you will need to prove your injuries, including by:
- Providing medical documentation of the condition, often ideally from a specialist who can link the condition to your work tasks
- Presenting evidence that you engage in tasks that could cause carpal tunnel syndrome, such as repetitive actions that you do during your job
- Notifying your employer about your injuries or pain, and seeking medical care from the provider they recommend
The most complicated part of the process is demonstrating that your injury was due to your job specifically. You can bet that insurance companies will look for any way to minimize this type of claim, including proving that you engage in other activities that could cause it. Having a Wheaton carpal tunnel workers’ comp lawyer available to guide you in proving this is critical.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medically diagnosed condition that occurs as a result of compression of the median nerve. This nerve passes through a narrow passageway in your wrist, called the carpal tunnel. In some people, the passage narrows from repetitive tasks that strain this area.
Some of the most common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include repetitive hand and wrist movement, including jobs related to:
- Assembly line work
- Typing
- Use of tools with vibration
- Tool use that requires forceful gripping
These tasks are common in manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries. If you are consistently engaging in them, you could be at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome. Workers’ compensation is one of the more common causes, but some health conditions and anatomical factors contribute to them as well. Here are common symptoms of the condition:
- Tingling, numbness, or pain in the thumb, index, or middle finger
- Pain that radiates up into your arm
- Weakness in the hand
When Will Workers’ Compensation Cover Your Losses?
It is important to know that workers’ compensation in Illinois will be awarded for carpal tunnel injury if your restriction is 15% of the loss of use of your hand. If it is less than this, there may be limitations on whether you can file a claim or how much it is worth.
Talk to our Wheaton personal injury lawyer today. We know about matters such as workers’ comp benefit rates in Illinois and how to fight for what you’re entitled to.
How Workers’ Comp Covers Carpal Tunnel
Once you determine that there is a direct link between the onset and worsening of your condition and your employment, you may be able to file a claim to recover damages. Workers’ comp in Illinois may cover carpal tunnel if you have proof that the work tasks are the direct cause.
In those situations, you may be able to file a claim for your losses, such as:
- Medical expenses related to your examination, evaluation, and treatment, as well as follow-up care
- Any rehabilitative treatment costs if you need to have a surgical repair
- Temporary total disability, which provides wage replacement, if you are unable to work for a period of time due to your doctor’s orders
- Permanent partial disability in situations where you are unable to work again due to your injuries and sustained damage
- Vocational rehabilitation if you can work, but you need to learn how to do a new job
Additionally, you may be able to recover a loss of earning capacity if you can no longer perform the same type of work you were doing and there is a significant difference in pay in your new position. If you are returning to work, do so with the assistance of our legal team. Do not settle without knowing your rights with the help of Therman Law.
How a Wheaton Carpal Tunnel Workers’ Comp Attorney Can Help You
Proving you have carpal tunnel is not the most challenging situation, especially if you have comprehensive medical reports that show it. What is challenging is showing that your employer is responsible.
When you are facing this type of claim, it is critical to work with a carpal tunnel workers’ comp attorney in Wheaton with years of experience to help you. We will assist you with:
- Determining what evidence exists to show that the injury is directly related to the routine work you do each day
- Calculating your losses after this accident, including any permanent injuries and long-term financial implications
- Evaluating who is at fault and building a strong case to support you, including listening to you provide insight into what your goals are
If you believe that workers’ comp is not treating you fairly or you are not getting the compensation you expected, turn to our Wheaton carpal tunnel workers’ compensation attorney for guidance. Let us be there to answer all of your questions. There is no risk when reaching out to our team.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation from a Trusted Local Legal Team
Our carpal tunnel workers’ comp lawyer in Wheaton is your advocate throughout this legal process. With an exceptional history and a dedication to each client’s best possible outcome, we are here to help you. Turn to Therman Law now for a free consultation and let our skilled legal team go to work for you.