Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common yet often misunderstood workplace injury, particularly for office workers. Caused by repetitive motions such as typing, mouse use, and other desk-based activities, CTS can lead to long-term pain, numbness, and reduced function in the hands and wrists. If you believe your condition is work-related, it’s crucial to build a strong case that connects your symptoms directly to your job duties.
Understand the Link Between Office Work and CTS
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. While many people associate CTS with manual labor or assembly line work, it’s just as common among office employees due to:
- Prolonged keyboard use
- Poor ergonomic setup
- Repetitive wrist and hand movements
- Long hours of computer work without breaks
Recognizing the connection between your job duties and your medical condition is the first step in pursuing compensation.
Step 1: Get a Formal Diagnosis
You must have a medical diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome to file a claim. Visit a qualified healthcare provider and describe your symptoms clearly, including:
- Numbness or tingling in your fingers
- Weakness in your grip
- Pain that worsens during or after work hours
- Trouble performing tasks like typing, gripping, or using a mouse
Ask your doctor to note in your medical records that the condition may be related to your work activities.
Step 2: Notify Your Employer
Report your condition to your employer as soon as possible, in writing if you can. California law requires timely reporting for workers’ compensation claims. Include:
- The date you first noticed symptoms
- A description of your typical work duties
- How those duties might contribute to your condition
Request a copy of the report for your records.
Step 3: Track Your Symptoms and Work Activities
Keeping a detailed journal is one of the most effective ways to support your claim. Include:
- Dates and times when symptoms flare up
- Specific tasks you were doing at the time (e.g., typing reports, data entry)
- How long you perform repetitive motions each day
- Changes in your productivity or pain level over time
This information can help demonstrate a clear pattern between your job and the development of CTS.
Step 4: Document Your Workstation Setup
Ergonomics matter. If your workspace lacks proper support, it may be contributing to your injury. Document:
- Photos of your desk, keyboard, chair, and mouse
- Whether your employer provided any ergonomic equipment
- Any adjustments you’ve made to reduce strain
This evidence can further support the claim that your working environment contributed to your condition.
Step 5: Request a Workers’ Compensation Claim Form
Once you’ve notified your employer, they are legally required to provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form. Complete and return the form promptly to begin the claims process. You may be entitled to:
- Medical treatment for CTS
- Temporary disability benefits if you can’t work
- Permanent disability benefits if the condition does not fully heal
- Job retraining if you cannot return to your prior role
Step 6: Speak With an Employment Law Attorney
Even if your injury seems straightforward, proving the link between carpal tunnel syndrome and office work can be difficult without experienced legal guidance. An attorney can help:
- Collect medical and occupational evidence
- Ensure deadlines are met
- Advocate for full compensation
At PLBH, we help California workers who suffer from job-related injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. We understand the challenges of proving workplace injuries that develop over time—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Call PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today for a free, confidential consultation.