The upper extremities are crucial components of the human body that belong to a working transformation. These are frequently used to fulfill daily tasks involving physical activity, including manual labor. People who work in labor and construction-intensive environments are at risk of developing upper extremity injuries that cause focal neuropathies. These injuries can lead to costly claims in workers’ compensation that affect the employee’s productivity and may lead to long-term disabilities if not treated promptly. Let’s explore the two most common focal neuropathies of upper extremity injuries that may arise in workers’ compensation claims.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common upper extremity injuries in workers’ compensation claims. This condition occurs when the median nerve is compressed in the carpal tunnel, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. CTS symptoms are often aggravated by repetitive work that involves the use of the hand and wrist, such as typing, using a mouse, or using hand tools. Workers who work in assembly lines, construction, and food processing are particularly vulnerable to this injury.

Treatment for CTS may include rest, splinting, steroid injections, surgery, or a combination of all three. Early treatment is crucial to prevent permanent damage to the median nerve.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

In workers ‘ compensation claims, cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is another common upper extremity injury. This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the ring and little fingers. CuTS symptoms often manifest when the elbow is bent for prolonged periods, as is typical of activities like typing or sleeping with the elbow flexed.

Treatment for CuTS may include changes in ergonomic habits, physiotherapy, splinting, steroid injections, or surgery. Rehabilitation and physical therapy after surgery are essential to reducing symptoms and recovering strength and motion.

CTS and CuTS are two of the most common focal neuropathies of upper extremity injuries found in workers’ compensation claims. These injuries can cause unbearable pain and discomfort, which may lead to long-term disabilities if not properly treated. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing permanent, irreparable damages and reducing the financial burden of such injuries. As a workers’ compensation claims professional, it’s essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments of these injuries to facilitate efficient and compassionate delivery of care.

Join our webinar on January 25th at 2 PM EST on “Repetitive Motion Injuries of the Upper Extremity” to learn more about the injury diagnosis and actions when presenting a claim. Register Today:  https://www.mtiamerica.com/repetitive-motion-injuries-of-the-upper-extremity/