Wrist and hand work injuries can be disabling and keep an injured worker out of work for a significant period of time. These types of injuries can be both traumatic and as a result of repetitive strain. At Mooney Law, our workers compensation team has handled hundreds of wrist and hand injury claims over the years. We have you covered and you can Count on Mooney.
The hand and wrist
The hand and wrist function as a unit. Injury to either one can impair the ability of the other to function properly. The hand and wrist are comprised of small bones and a complex system of cartilage and ligaments that provide the function of the hand and wrist to move with dexterity and strength. To function at maximum efficiency requires full function of both the hand and wrist.
Besides the bones and ligaments, the hand is also small bones called carpals, metacarpals and phalanges. The two bones of the lower arm — the radius and the ulna — meet at the hand to form the wrist. The major nerves are the median and ulnar nerves, which run the length of the arm to transmit electrical impulses to and from the brain to create movement and sensation. This is a relatively rudimentary description of the hand and wrist.
Most Common Hand and Wrist Injuries
Hand Injuries:
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- Sprains/Strains
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and sequela
- Crush Injuries
- Trigger Finger
- Nerve damage
- Finger Amputations
- Fractures
- Lacerations
- Burns
Wrist Injuries:
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- Sprain/Strain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and sequela
- DeQuervain’s Syndrome
- Tendinitis
- Tenosynovitis
- Fractures
- Aggravation of Arthritis
- Ligament Tears
With both hand and wrist injuries, we commonly see repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These type of injuries are caused by doing the same type of activities every day. We commonly see these type of injuries in assembly line type positions. Additionally, these type of injuries can be also caused by use of vibration tools.
Hand and wrist injuries can be expensive for employers and insurance carriers. That is why reported work injuries are frequently denied. However, just because the work injury may be denied does not mean an injured worker just ‘lets it go’. Hand and wrist injuries can be significantly disabling. In most jobs, use of hands is required for some or all tasks. Continuing to work through a hand or wrist injury can exacerbate symptoms, worsen tears, and cause permanent nerve damage. That is why it is imperative for a worker who experiences hand or wrist symptoms to; 1) immediately report the injury to a supervisor; 2) seek immediate medical attention; and 3) contact Mooney Law for a FREE phone consultation. You can call Mooney Law today at 717-200-HELP or 833-MOONEYLAW. Mooney Law’s Workers’ Compensation practices handled work injury claims in both Pennsylvania and Maryland.
