Los Angeles Carpal Tunnel Injury Attorney

Various types of jobs in the Los Angeles area can put one at risk of developing a carpal tunnel injury. If this has happened to you, review your case with a Los Angeles carpal tunnel injury attorney at The Law Offices of Kropach & Kropach. We can explain your legal options and assist you in pursuing workers’ compensation benefits.

What is a Carpal Tunnel Injury?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, is chronically squeezed or compressed. This can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand, wrist, and arm. CTS is caused by a variety of factors, including (but not limited to):

• Repetitive movements: Repetitive movements of the hand and wrist, such as typing, using a mouse, or performing assembly line work, can put pressure on the median nerve, causing CTS.
• Trauma: Trauma to the hand, wrist, or forearm can cause inflammation and swelling, which can compress the median nerve and lead to CTS.

What Types of Jobs Can Cause a Carpal Tunnel Injury?

Certain types of jobs put individuals at a higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) because they involve repetitive movements of the hand and wrist. These types of jobs include (but aren’t limited to):

• Assembly line work: Jobs that involve repetitive movements, such as assembling small parts or operating machinery, can put a lot of stress on the hands and wrists and can lead to CTS.
• Data entry: Jobs that involve a lot of typing or mouse use, such as data entry or programming, can also put individuals at risk of CTS.
• Meatpacking: Meatpacking jobs also involve repetitive motions, such as cutting and packaging meat, which can lead to CTS.
• Cashier: Cashiers are at risk due to the repetitive actions of scanning items and handling money.
• Construction: Construction jobs that involve using vibrating tools, such as jackhammers or power drills, can also put individuals at risk of CTS.
• Hairdressers/barbers: Stylists and barbers are at risk due to the repetitive motions of cutting and styling hair.
• Musicians: Musicians that play instruments with strings such as guitar, violin, etc. are at risk due to the repetitive motions of playing and practicing for long periods.
• Cleaning: Cleaning jobs that involve repetitive motions such as scrubbing, mopping, and washing can put a lot of stress on the hands and wrists and can lead to CTS.

Contact a Los Angeles Carpal Tunnel Injury Lawyer

To file a workers’ compensation claim for a carpal tunnel injury in California, you will need to follow these steps:

• Report the injury to your employer: As soon as you suspect that you have developed CTS, you should report the injury to your employer. They will then report the injury to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
• Seek medical attention: You should seek medical attention as soon as possible to have your injury diagnosed. Your doctor will need to confirm that your carpal tunnel injury is work-related.
• File a claim: Once you have been diagnosed with CTS, you will need to file a claim with the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). You can do this by filling out the appropriate forms and submitting them to the DWC.
• Attend a hearing: If your claim is denied, you may need to attend a hearing in front of a workers’ compensation judge to appeal the decision.

If your claim is approved, you may be eligible for benefits such as medical expenses, temporary disability payments, and permanent disability payments. In addition, if you are unable to work due to your CTS, your employer may be required to provide you with a modified or alternative job within your physical capabilities.

Be aware that employers and insurance companies often seek reasons to justify denying workers’ compensation claims. To boost your odds of securing the benefits you deserve, strongly consider reviewing your case with a Los Angeles carpal tunnel injury attorney at The Law Offices of Kropach & Kropach. We’re prepared to offer the representation you deserve. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 818-609-7005.