Carpal tunnel syndrome is a relatively common condition, which occurs as a result of compression of the median nerve in the wrist. Symptoms include tingling sensations, numbness and dull aches and pains in the fingers, hands and arms.
For many sufferers, the condition may be temporary and symptoms will disappear on their own or through self-treatment. In more serious cases, surgery, known as carpal tunnel decompression, may be required to reduce pressure on the median nerve in the wrist and relieve the condition. Depending on the severity of the case, it may take some time to recover and return to work.
One of the known causes of carpal tunnel syndrome is repetitive strain on the hands or wrists. Employers have a duty to protect workers from prolonged exposure to repetitive actions that may lead to such injuries. Regular risk assessments should be carried out and if a risk of injury is identified, then workers or the type of work should be rotated so that they do not do one task for too long.
Bartletts personal injury solicitors in Chester recently helped a labourer who was suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome successfully secure compensation from his employer for his injuries.
The 25 year old, who had been doing the same job pulling heavy hydraulic and water lines for 10 months, began to feel a ‘pins and needles’ sensation in his wrist. This turned to numbness and constant aching. His GP sent him to hospital where he was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and told he would need an operation.
Our experienced personal injury solicitor commissioned a report from a consultant hand surgeon to get a full assessment of his condition and his prognosis. We then presented the information to his employer to secure a settlement under their employers’ liability insurance.
The labourer made a full recovery after his operation. He was able to return to work after 4 weeks and had made a full recovery by three months.
