Repetitive Stress Injury Attorneys In Des Moines

Whether you work at an office or a factory, most workers are assigned to repeat the same tasks day in and day out. These tasks may involve continuous typing, constant bending or repetitive lifting. The repetition of these tasks on a daily basis can lead to repetitive stress injury.

Des Moines Carpal Tunnel Lawyers

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common occupational injury, particularly for those in jobs involving repetitive hand motions. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, becomes compressed at the wrist. The compression can cause pain, numbness and weakness in the hand and wrist, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

Making repetitive hand movements is a leading cause of carpal tunnel. Other contributing factors include prolonged wrist flexion or extension and the use of vibrating tools in the workplace. Occupations often associated with the development of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Office employees: Typing on computers for extended periods.
• Health care professionals: Repetitive use of medical tools and instruments.
• Manufacturing workers: Repetitive tasks on assembly lines.
• Construction workers: Use of hand tools and vibrating machinery.
• Cashiers: Scanning items at checkout counters.
• Mechanics: Repetitive gripping and twisting actions.
• Janitorial employees: Repetitive cleaning motions and use of equipment.
• Delivery workers: Repetitive lifting and carrying packages.

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes an array of symptoms, many of which can persist indefinitely without medical attention. The symptoms often start gradually and can include tingling or numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers, as well as a weakened grip.

As the condition progresses, symptoms can worsen and may interfere with daily activities. In severe cases, impacted workers may experience a loss of hand function, making it difficult to perform work-related tasks.

Not all occupational hand and wrist pain is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Other conditions include:

• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons due to overuse or strain.
• De Quervain’s tenosynovitis: Painful swelling of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles near joints.
• Cubital tunnel syndrome: Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, causing pain in the hand and wrist.
• Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS): Caused by prolonged use of vibrating tools, leading to numbness, tingling and pain.

Fortunately, the Iowa workers’ compensation system recognizes carpal tunnel syndrome, and other hand and wrist conditions as legitimate work injuries. In other words, if your job led to the development of repetitive stress injuries, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

Helping Injured Workers Get Workers’ Compensation

If you develop an injury caused by performing your job on a daily basis, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and medical treatment paid for by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer. Jeff Carter Law Offices, P.C., can help you understand your rights and options and work to ensure you receive proper medical care and appropriate workers’ comp benefits.

Our Des Moines repetitive injury attorneys have 30 years of combined experience representing clients in Des Moines and across Iowa in all aspects of the workers’ compensation system. We assist injured workers in getting medical treatment, filing workers’ comp claims and appealing the wrongful denial of workers’ comp benefits. Regardless of how complex your case may be, we have the experience and resources to fully protect your rights and interests.

Contact Jeff Carter Law Offices, P.C.

To schedule a free consultation, call our office at 515-644-4871 or 402-979-8675. Our firm serves clients throughout Iowa, and we are also equipped to handle cases in Nebraska, Minnesota and Georgia.

In-home, weekend and evening appointments are available upon request. Workers’ compensation cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.