The development of carpal tunnel pain or carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is relatively common among people who work in fields that require repetitive hand, wrist and arm movements. Employees such as data entry operators, dental hygienists, ultrasound technicians and assembly line workers are at increased risk. The insurer providing Utah Workers Compensation for an employer may deny a claim if it determines that the employee was at even greater risk because of a health condition. Two examples of health problems connected with the development of CTS are Type 2 diabetes and nearly any autoimmune disorder.
Personal characteristics and habits also are connected with a greater risk of this physical ailment. A woman past menopause is more likely to develop CTS, as is someone who is significantly overweight. People who smoke tobacco are more likely than nonsmokers to experience this type of chronic wrist pain.
A Utah Workers Compensation lawyer may be necessary to help claimants who have been denied if they fit any of these parameters. Statements from a medical doctor will probably be required to verify that the job duties are definitively associated with the patient’s wrist issues, more so than any other health problems, personal characteristics or behaviors. The attorney can provide statistics showing the rate of repetitive strain injuries in the client’s occupation. If appropriate, he or she can also include statistics showing the rate among individuals who are in a similar health, personal or behavioral category as this client.
It’s important to seek legal assistance quickly from an organization such as Davis and Sanchez PLLC if the claim has been denied and the employee cannot afford treatment. This may be the case if someone is not a full-time employee and does not have health insurance through the company, or if the person’s medical insurance policy has substantial limitations. Workers compensation, when approved, pays for all related medical bills. The sooner the patient begins therapy, the more likely he or she will be able to avoid needing surgery to correct the condition. Physical therapy, a customized wrist brace and corticosteroid injections to decrease inflammation and swelling may be recommended.
