Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive stress injury that occurs when there is extreme pressure on the median nerve in the wrist with repeated activity. Should you begin to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, you’ll soon notice that parts of your hand are falling asleep, you’re losing strength and it’s making it difficult to do your job.
Generally speaking, it’s a challenge to get the Social Security Administration to approve a carpal tunnel syndrome case. However, if it’s truly stopping you from doing your job, you should receive the appropriate medical treatment and take the steps necessary to obtain benefits. Here are some things to consider:
Are the symptoms disabling?
This is the question you need to answer. In order to receive disability benefits, you must be able to prove that your carpal tunnel syndrome is disabling to the point that you can’t do your job.
Some examples of symptoms associated with carpal tunnel include:
- Numbness in the hand and fingers
- Difficulty moving your fingers
- Difficulty bending your wrist
- Extreme pain in the hand, wrist and arm
- Difficulty carrying items
For example, if you work as a receptionist, carpal tunnel syndrome may make it difficult to write, type and hold a phone. All of these things are crucial to doing your job at a high level, so it may be time to seek Social Security Disability benefits.
Should you be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome or another type of repetitive stress injury, take the time to learn more about the cause, treatment options and Social Security Disability claims process. You may be able to take action that allows you to receive compensation until your injury is resolved.