Carpal Tunnel: Putting the Brakes on Bus Driving
You always enjoyed driving, so when the opportunity to drive a bus for the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County came up, you took it. After years of janitorial work, you expected a relaxing job that was easy on your body, so you were surprised when your lower back pain made it difficult to get comfortable.
Next, you began experiencing pain in your arms and wrists, mostly from operating the steering wheel and having to set and release parking brakes. Reaching forward and pulling hard each time you set the brakes was wreaking havoc on your arms and shoulders.
Do You Have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
When the wrist and hand pain became a constant in your life, you knew it was time to see a doctor, because you were concerned you had carpal tunnel syndrome. The symptoms of this painful and debilitating condition include:
- Burning or tingling in your thumb, index, and middle fingers, or pain that moves up your arm and into your elbow
- Numbness or a “pins and needles” feeling in your fingers
- Difficulty making a fist
- Fingers that feel swollen
- Pain and/or numbness that is worse at night and even interrupts sleep
- Difficulty handling small objects
- Hand weakness
- Difficulty grabbing objects with your hands, or frequently dropping items
Keeping the Wheels in Motion During Your Recovery
A doctor will determine if you have carpal tunnel syndrome by running a few tests. If your condition prevents you from being able to work, you may qualify to receive workers’ compensation.
If you have questions about the workers’ comp process or were already turned down, attorney Steve Lee wants to help. Contact us today by filling out our online form or by calling 800.232.3711 to speak with a legal professional about your situation and to begin getting the help you need.