Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or CTS, is a repetitive strain injury caused by the compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel area of the wrist. The result of CTS is tissue enlargement, and a pinching of the median nerve. This pinching results in a range of symptoms including: 1) sensations of tingling, burning, or numbness in the fingers, 2) a loss of manual dexterity and grip strength, 3) locking of the finger joints in various positions, 4) swelling and inflammation in the fingers, and 5) pain.
For this or any medical impairment to be given weight by the SSA, be sure to report your symptoms to your treating doctors. The types of things you need to report are pain, numbness, loss of feeling, weakness and similar feelings that are abnormal. You should also be sure to report how these symptoms are limiting your ability to use your hands. Talk about whether you are able to use your hands for activities such as gripping, holding, or keyboarding on a computer. If you drop things or cannot lift objects such as cartons of milk, talk about that. In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome, the medical records should show the results of a nerve conduction study. The treatment notes obtained from a claimant’s doctor should also indicate the particular limitations imposed by carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as a specific prognosis.
Carpal tunnel syndrome sufferers who apply for Social Security disability benefits should not give up if their case is denied. They should continue to pursue their Social Security disability claim through Social Security’s appeals process. Most initial applications for disability benefits are denied, regardless of the condition. The Disability and Injury Law Offices of David R. Machek recommends that you appeal the denial, and ultimately get a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). To schedule a free initial consultation and case evaluation with a trusted SSDI and SSI lawyer serving Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the surrounding region, please contact the Disability and Injury Law Offices of David R. Machek online or call at Jenkintown 215-385-5353 or Philadelphia 215-323-5320 to arrange a free initial consultation with our lawyer about SSD/SSI eligibility.