How Do Car Accidents Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Car accidents are known to cause many different injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and more. An injury that is often overlooked by accident victims is carpal tunnel syndrome. Although most people are aware that repetitive motions, such as typing, are the main cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, this painful condition can also develop as a result of a car crash. Below, our Tampa car accident attorney explains in greater detail.
How Does a Car Crash Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed. The median nerve runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand. The main symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include pain, tingling, and weakness in the wrist and hand. Sometimes, the symptoms can be so severe it prevents accident victims from gripping and holding items, such as coffee mugs or a phone.
While prolonged use and repetitive motions are the main causes of carpal tunnel syndrome, car accidents can also result in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. This is often referred to as traumatic carpal tunnel syndrome because the condition is a result of trauma to the area. There are many different types of car crashes that can result in carpal tunnel syndrome, but the condition is most common after a rear-end accident. Accident victims may grip the steering wheel upon impact, or their wrists may otherwise bend unnaturally.
Proving Carpal Tunnel Syndrome After a Car Accident
Treating carpal tunnel syndrome typically involves non-invasive treatments such as corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and wrist splints. In the most severe cases, surgery known as carpal tunnel release may be necessary.
Insurance companies often argue against claims for carpal tunnel syndrome after a car accident. Insurance adjusters often claim that repetitive motions cause this condition, and not car accidents. Previous wrist injuries or carpal tunnel syndromes can also complicate the matter, as they work in the insurance company’s favor.
Solid medical evidence is necessary when pursuing damages for carpal tunnel after a car accident. Medical records and other documentation can show the extent of your injury and how the crash caused it. Even if you did suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome before your accident, you can still pursue damages for the injury if the crash exacerbated your condition. Insurance companies push back aggressively against pre-existing conditions, so it is critical to speak to an attorney who can prove your case.
Our Car Accident Attorney in Tampa Can Prove Your Case
Carpal tunnel syndrome is not one of the most obvious injuries after a car accident, but a crash can cause this long-term and painful condition. At Moore Law, our Tampa car accident attorney can ensure you receive the medical treatment you need to ensure the injury does not become worse and to obtain the medical documentation you need to prove your case. Call us now at 813-510-5400 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12221488/
