The Challenges of a Long Term Disability Claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can turn everyday tasks into painful challenges. When the intricate muscles, tendons, and nerves in our hands and wrists are compromised, activities that once felt second nature become difficult or impossible.
CTS, caused by the narrowing of the carpal tunnel in the wrist, can be debilitating for those in professions requiring precision and dexterity. For doctors, surgeons, programmers, and others, the condition can mark the end of their careers. Filing a disability claim for CTS, whether for partial or total disability, often involves a rigorous process. While you may understand the limitations CTS places on your daily life, insurance companies typically view these claims as costly liabilities.
What Can You Expect with a CTS Claim?
To succeed in a CTS disability insurance claim, your medical records must provide detailed, objective evidence of the condition. This can include:
- Nerve conduction studies to measure signal speed through the median nerve.
- Electromyography to assess muscle damage.
- Ultrasound or imaging to measure the size of the median nerve.
- Ruling out other conditions like arthritis or fractures.
- Clinical tests such as Tinel’s Sign and Phalen’s Maneuver.
Unfortunately, a diagnosis based on observation alone may not satisfy insurance companies. Objective testing, while invasive, is often required to validate claims.
Why Does the Disability Insurance Company Think I Can Do Other Work?
Insurance companies frequently argue that claimants can perform other types of work, even if their profession is no longer feasible. For those with “own occupation” policies, particularly those purchased privately, you have stronger grounds to contest such assertions. Group policies, typically governed by ERISA, involve stricter timelines and more complex processes.
The suggestion that a surgeon or dentist with CTS can transition to another job like office management is a common tactic. At Newfield Law Group, we regularly challenge these claims and advocate for benefits that reflect your inability to perform the specific tasks of your profession.
Can the Disability Insurance Company Force Me to Have Surgery?
Decisions regarding surgery should rest between you and your physician—not the insurance company. We have successfully countered cases where insurers pressured claimants to undergo unnecessary or non-recommended surgeries.
What Should You Do to Protect Your Claim?
To strengthen your claim:
- Avoid tasks that could risk your patients or work quality.
- Maintain a detailed log of your symptoms and their impact on daily activities.
- Be mindful of surveillance tactics by insurers, including social media monitoring.
- Ensure your medical records clearly document the functional limitations caused by CTS.
A Trusted Advocate for You and Your CTS Disability Claim
Jason Newfield is a seasoned disability attorney with over two decades of experience. He understands the unique challenges posed by conditions like CTS and fights tirelessly for his clients’ rights. From the initial claim to appeals, he offers compassionate, effective legal representation.
If you are unable to work due to CTS, don’t navigate the claims process alone. Contact the Newfield Law Group today for a free consultation. Time limits apply to disability claims, so act quickly.