Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is frequently associated with office workers hunched over a keyboard or chronic texters who never give their thumbs a break. Indeed, posture and repetitive motions like typing are undoubtedly responsible for many CTS cases. However, direct trauma to the hand and wrist in a car accident can just as easily create carpal tunnel syndrome.
Overview
In the palm of your hand is the median nerve. This all-important connector provides sensation and mobility to your wrists, thumbs, and first three fingers. For the median nerve to reach from the upper arm into the hand, it passes through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when excess pressure in the wrist compresses the median nerve.
Symptoms
Compression in the carpal tunnel has very noticeable consequences. Many people report feeling:
- Tingling or numbness in your first three fingers and thumb
- Weakness in the hand that could include dropping Objects or the inability to control its movement
- Loss of sensation in hand or fingers
- Pain that extends up from the hand through the arm
Causes
Determining the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is not always straightforward. However, the following are known to contribute to the development of CTS:
- Small, repetitive movements with the hands and fingers (such as typing)
- Frequent and repetitive grasping movements
- Disease in the bones or joints that weaken your wrist’s overall health
Further, any sudden trauma to the wrist can induce carpal tunnel syndrome. For example, the force inflicted on the body in a car accident. A driver gripping the wheel tightly during the crash risks damaging the ligaments and bones in the wrist that put pressure on the median nerve. Another example is in instances of slip and falls where a person attempts to brace themself by using their hands.
Treatments
Treating CTS will depend on factors such as age, medical history, and the severity of your injury. A medical professional should accurately assess your damage to determine your best recovery options. Patients with more mild cases will use a splint to keep the wrist from moving until the compression fades. They may also take anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and engage in stretching exercises.
Car Accidents and CTS
Studies have shown that motor vehicle accidents cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Regardless of age or gender, trauma to the wrist can cause CTS all the same. With any personal injury case, there are several damages you may recover for pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. Carpal tunnel syndrome can enormously impact your day-to-day life, even if your symptoms fade as time goes on. When a negligent driver causes harm and upends your life, you deserve fair and complete compensation.
Personal Injury Representation
If you believe you have suffered carpal tunnel syndrome because of someone else’s negligence, contact our office at (919) 526-0450 or submit an inquiry through our contact page. Our attorneys work passionately to make sure our clients get what they deserve- not just the first offer an insurer makes.
