Do You Suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

What are the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel? Carpal Tunnel may begin as a mere tingling or weakness in the wrist, hands and forearms. However, in time the symptoms will progress to sharp, "shooting", pains in the wrist, hands and forearm, or a constant, yet dull ache in those regions.

What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Carpal Tunnel is the result of several factors. Most can be prevented. It is purported by some researchers that the disorder is caused in part by repetitive motions in the hand and wrist; repetitive motions that may be required in a job or at home. Most certainly and widely accepted as a cause is vibration from tools or machines. Other causes may include trauma, breakage or other injury to the affected wrist.
There are other factors that in theory cause Carpal Tunnel. Such factors are in the realm of certain pre-dispositions to this disorder, whether by genes or other. It is also theorized that women, who are 3 times more likely to develop this disorder than men, may develop this disorder at the hand of menopause or pregnancy; women during the states previously mentioned may develop the disorder due to a shift in hormones that may result in fluid retention.

There is no industry that seems to be predisposed as an industry which has a high rate of Carpal Tunnel diagnosis. All industries have had people develop this disorder. However, there are some industries that do show slightly higher numbers of this conditions occurrence. "...assembly line work - manufacturing, sewing, finishing, cleaning, and meat, poultry, or fish packing. In fact, carpal tunnel syndrome is three times more common among assemblers than among data-entry..." Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Preventative Measures. Employer's have a responsibility to keep their employees safe and healthy on the job. Carpal Tunnel can be prevented, or the symptoms lessened if repetitive movements involving the hand and wrist is shared by all employees and all employees are not forced to do such work day in and day out. Employer's can train their employee's in ergonomics and other preventative exercises that may lessen the onset or symptoms of Carpal Tunnel. Of course there are several other things employer's can do to facilitate the health and well-being of all their employee's.

Treating Carpal Tunnel can be very expensive and sometimes involves surgery. Carpal Tunnel has an impact on your life, not only in an immediate sense, but often in the long term sense as well.

If you or someone you know has this devastating condition, it is first important they seek medical treatment; second, you may not know all of the factor's that caused your condition, therefore it will be important to seek legal counsel who can make sure the cause of your condition is found, and your rights are protected.

E. Michael Grossman is an accomplished personal injury attorney focusing on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome cases.