An ache in the palm that may not go away on its own may send you to the doctor, especially if it affects your job performance. However, did you know that it is possible your work is causing it?
Hand pain that develops without trauma or apparent cause may trace back to your job. Certain professions come with an inherent risk of a hand injury. If this is the case, you may file a workers’ compensation claim under California law that allows you to get the medical care necessary.
What professions cause hand pain?
Jobs that require repetitive arm and hand movements tend to have higher rates of hand injuries. One of the most common jobs as a factory assembler requires intricate and repetitive hand movements. Done hours a day, week in and week out, the movement eventually wears out the overused muscles. Other jobs that may also result in this wear down include:
- Typist
- Construction worker
- Needleworker
- Hairstylist
- Baker
- Cashier
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
The most widely diagnosed repetitive use hand injury is carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel occurs when the tissue in the forearm becomes inflamed from overuse and compresses the median nerve that runs into the hand. This nerve is responsible for hand movement. Carpal tunnel is treatable, and the symptoms may ease with rest, medication and physical therapy. However, in some cases, the inflammation causes extensive damage to the tissue and requires surgery. Other signs of carpal tunnel include the loss of grip strength and numbness in the fingers.
A hand injury that goes undiagnosed or untreated may eventually cause permanent disability. You should reach out for help from a medical professional to receive relief and then a report that points to your job as the culprit.
