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Numbness, Tingling, & Pain: Oh My! (AKA: carpal tunnel syndrome)

by | May 3, 2023 | SSD - Social Security Disability |

An age-old condition (first named in 1854) but a very real problems in modern times as well!

With the increasing use of computers, laptops, e-readers, and cell phones, there is no wonder more people are experiencing painful and frustrating problems with the use of their hands and wrists. Jobs that commonly require a lot of hand and finger use include assembly jobs, secretarial work, inspector positions, and sorters.

The common symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness are caused when the median nerve that runs through a narrow passageway from the forearm to the wrist to the hand. Some treatment options include rest, hand therapy, medications, surgery, steroid injections, avoiding triggers, and splinting.

When evaluating a claim of carpal tunnel syndrome, SSA reps and judges will typically look for objective testing results from ultrasounds, electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies (NCS). It is helpful to have your doctor do physical exams measuring your pinch and grip strength and if they refer you to a hand specialist, you should go if at all possible.

Well-documented carpal tunnel cases can be very strong evidence of disability. This is because many occupations require the frequent use of one or both hands to perform job duties. A reduced ability to perform these tasks on a frequent basis can be the winning piece of your case.

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