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Can a Car Accident Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Yes. Anything that irritates this median nerve can cause carpal tunnel syndrome, including a car accident.

Although it is generally not common, a car accident has the potential to cause carpal tunnel syndrome. The crash’s impact may cause trauma to the hand and wrist, leading to swelling in the carpal tunnel.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Many people believe that carpal tunnel is only caused by repetitive stress. However, according to Mayo Clinic, this injury is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs from the forearm through your wrist to your hand. Carpal tunnel creates a feeling of discomfort in the palm, side of the thumb, and fingers, apart from the little finger.

wrist pain after a car accident

Anything that irritates this median nerve can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. While it’s true that repetitive stress may be the most common cause, it is by no means the only cause. Wrist fractures, for instance, are also known to cause this condition.

If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can have long-lasting effects on a patient. Over time, the condition may even worsen. Those who experience it may find it difficult to grip, which can lead to losing your job or being unable to perform certain activities.

Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • Numbness or tingling
  • Weakness
  • Pain
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Stiffness
  • Trouble grasping objects

Can It Be Caused by a Car Accident?

Yes. Anything that irritates this median nerve can cause carpal tunnel syndrome, including a car accident.

If a car collision in Missouri hurts your wrist, it’s possible to develop carpal tunnel as result. This could be from a direct injury to the wrist or even from gripping the steering wheel tightly before the impact of the crash. The resulting injury can put significant pressure on the nerves and tissue in the wrist, which can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you seek medical attention after the injury, a doctor can provide a diagnosis. It’s possible that even if you do hurt your wrist in a car accident, you may brush it off, as the initial pain isn’t so severe. You should still consider getting your wrist checked to make sure everything is fine.

Can You Get Compensation for It?

If the injury is directly caused by the car accident, you can generally pursue compensation for your pain and suffering. Though insurance companies may try to downplay this injury, it is important to understand that it will require medical treatment. You may even need to stop working until you’re feeling better. A car accident settlement can help provide some financial support at this time.

You will have to prove the injury was caused by the car accident and not by your line of work or because of another injury. If you get medical treatment after the collision, the doctor’s diagnosis will serve as proof that your claim is valid, and you can back it up with other medical evidence from your file (treatment plan, prescription, even doctor testimony.)

What to do If Your Wrist is Injured in a Car Accident

If your wrist has been injured in a car accident, it is important to prioritize your health and safety and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Next, before speaking with any insurance companies, consult with an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney to ensure your legal rights are protected. Your attorney can help you document the injuries and expenses related to the accident and pursue the full compensation you are legally entitled to.


Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!

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Updated: January 12, 2023