Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Long-Term Disability Benefits

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, with symptoms like tingling fingers, an achy wrist, or occasional numbness. But for many people, it becomes a serious condition that interferes with their ability to work and carry out everyday activities. In severe cases, CTS can even lead to long-term disability.

Because carpal tunnel syndrome often develops gradually, it can be misunderstood or underestimated. People may push through the pain until the symptoms become unbearable, leaving them unable to perform their jobs or daily responsibilities. For those in Alberta whose careers depend on typing, assembly-line work, or repetitive hand movements, the impact can be life-changing.

In this article, we’ll explore what carpal tunnel syndrome is, what causes it, how it’s treated, and why it sometimes leads to long-term disability claims.

If CTS is affecting your livelihood, our long-term disability lawyers in Calgary may be able to help you understand your rights and the options available to you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your LTD options.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the wrist. This nerve controls movement and sensation in parts of the hand, particularly the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.

When the carpal tunnel (a narrow passageway of ligaments and bones in the wrist) becomes compressed, it can lead to:

• Tingling or numbness in the hand and fingers
• Pain that radiates up the arm
• Weakness in the hand or difficulty gripping objects
• A sensation of “pins and needles”

CTS can affect one or both hands and tends to worsen over time if untreated.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually the result of a combination of factors, rather than a single cause. Common contributors include:

• Repetitive hand or wrist motions (typing, assembly line work, using vibrating tools)
• Work-related strain from physically demanding or repetitive jobs
• Underlying health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or thyroid disorders
• Pregnancy (fluid retention can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel)
• Previous wrist injuries, such as fractures or sprains

For many people, CTS is a work-related injury, which can complicate both treatment and disability claims.

Symptoms to Watch For

The signs of carpal tunnel syndrome often start gradually but can worsen without intervention. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, or middle fingers
• Pain or burning sensations that worsen at night
• Hand weakness, making it difficult to grip items or perform fine motor tasks
• A feeling that your fingers are “swollen,” even if they look normal

Left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage and muscle deterioration.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors usually diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome through:

• Physical exams to test hand strength and sensation
• Nerve conduction studies to measure how well electrical signals travel through the median nerve
• Electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle response

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

• Wrist splints to keep the wrist in a neutral position, especially at night
• Medications (anti-inflammatories or corticosteroid injections)
• Activity modifications (adjusting work tasks, ergonomic changes)
• Surgery (carpal tunnel release) in severe or persistent cases

Recovery varies as some people improve with conservative treatments, while others need surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.

How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Affects Daily Life

While CTS might not sound as severe as other medical conditions, its impact can be significant. People with moderate to severe CTS often struggle with:

• Typing or computer work
• Driving long distances
• Lifting, carrying, or gripping objects
• Household chores such as cooking or cleaning
• Sleep disruption from nighttime pain and tingling

Because so many jobs require repetitive hand use, CTS can make it nearly impossible to continue working without proper accommodation or treatment.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Long-Term Disability Benefits

For individuals whose CTS prevents them from working, long-term disability (LTD) benefits may be available through their employer’s group insurance plan or a private policy. These benefits can help replace lost income while the person is unable to work.

However, LTD claims for carpal tunnel syndrome are not always straightforward. Insurance companies may argue that CTS is:

• A “manageable” condition with treatment
• Not severe enough to prevent you from working
• Caused by pre-existing conditions rather than work duties

This often leads to claims being denied or cut off prematurely, leaving individuals without the support they need while dealing with ongoing pain and limitations.

Proving an LTD Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

To strengthen a long-term disability claim for CTS, it helps to provide:

• Detailed medical record, including diagnostic test results and physician notes
• Documentation of symptoms and how they affect your daily and work activities
• Treatment history showing attempts at splinting, medication, or surgery
• Employer records demonstrating the repetitive nature of your job duties

The more evidence you can provide to show how CTS limits your ability to perform your “own occupation” (and later, “any occupation”), the stronger your claim will be.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

If your LTD claim for carpal tunnel syndrome has been denied, don’t give up. Insurers frequently dispute musculoskeletal or nerve-related conditions, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t entitled to benefits.

You have the right to:

• Appeal the insurer’s decision
• Provide additional medical evidence
• Seek help from a lawyer experienced in long-term disability disputes

A legal team can review your policy, communicate with the insurance company, and fight for the benefits you’re owed.

Need Help? Contact Preszler Injury Lawyers Alberta

At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we understand how frustrating carpal tunnel syndrome can be – especially when it prevents you from earning a living. If your LTD claim has been denied or your benefits have been cut off, our team is here to help.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win.

If you’re struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome and long-term disability benefits, call us today at 1-888-494-7191 or contact us online. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the next step.