Workmen's Compensation - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

barrytrot · 04-09-2001, 12:18 PM

I believe that I am developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

I have the symptoms that are listed on the various sites about it.

However, I fear going to the doctor since I don't want to have to lose my job. More importantly, I don't want to lose my income.

My question is, is there workmen's compensation for CTS? Also, I make a fair amount of money, would any workmen's comp be based on what I currently make or just based on some standard amount?

Any help would be appreciated.

raynbow · 04-17-2001, 04:19 PM

Yes, CTS entitles you to workman's compensation benefits. This should include any and all medical treatment, mileage going to any medical treatment, and some payment for time you are unable to perform your work. I'm in the same boat - I believe that the compensation is $480/month here in California, which is FAR less than what I make.

As for fearing retribution from your employer, you really shouldn't worry. I just went through it all with my employer. They carry insurance to cover these claims, so it's not like the money is coming directly out of their accounts. Also, they cannot fire you for filing a claim.

All I can say is good luck. You don't want to mess around with your health, so I would really recommend doing all that it takes to make your hands better.

MaryAnne5 · 04-22-2001, 06:50 AM

If you live in Georgia, you should check with an attorney. I was fired from my job, because my employer did not report my condition to the state worker's compensation board. They had to cover up this mistake. You do have certain rights, but if your boss decides to discriminate/fire you, your only recourse, (in Ga.) is to sue. (But do you really want to work for people that think so little of you.) Other companies do not like employees who sue, they consider them to be trouble makers. Do not file under your personal insurance, unless (like I was) the condition deteriorates and you are forced to. Private companies are better in treating these issues. If you work for education/public school system you SHOULD seek advice to protect yourself/job. If your condition has not progressed to the point of a disformity (or permanent damage/pain), you can try VIOXX or CELEBRAX. Remember, those persons you work with could care less, you are becoming a liability to them. Good luck.

[This message has been edited by MaryAnne5 (edited 05-08-2001).]

lstygar · 04-30-2001, 09:29 AM

I had CTS in my right and left hand...the workmans comp in Indiana paid for all doctors...the surgery in my right hand and paid me for loss of income....iffin you do have cts...and you have a surgery done...be very careful with workmans comp. I was told when i had the surgery you will automatically loose some usage of your hand...I did i know for a fact because i still have problems with it. THey *w.c. will offer you a settlement...usually around 5000 dollars ....dont take it....fight it...all in all my best advice for you is to get an attorney. Alot of attorneys out there does not want you to pay anything unless they receive something for you. If you do have the surgery and after the surgery you still have problems...do not settle with workmans comp becuz once you settle with them they are not liable for anything more. i know this for a fact also. I settled and now i am left with a hand that has lost 10 percent usage in it...i cant open a jar of jelly or anything that has a seal on it...hurts to write, to type , to pretty much do anything with my hand. So just be very careful as to how you handle this.

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laura stygar

cksmlap · 05-29-2001, 04:14 AM

Lot's of good advice!! I'm home on w/c In Michigan, you receive about 67% of normal weekly wages. For me, it was equal to what I normally would bring home after taxes and insurance premiums. The only downfall is that w/c doesn't take out takes and I have to pay my medical premius out of pocket it I want to continue them. Some companies are good. My advice would be to find out who the w/c carrier is and make sure they have a claim on file. You cannot receive benefits if you sue, so be careful that you don't until after the surgery. As for the success of the surgery, I've heard both good and bad. I hope this helps, good luck!!