Carpal tunnel, workers comp?
Ive been on a waste water site since december. Basically been pulling wire the whole time. The PMs and INC have changed their minds so many times, we have basically repulled every single wire pull atleast 3-4 times.
I have had issues with carpal tunnel from previous jobs working in bars/restaraunts, but it was pretty manageable and actually hasnt been an issue at all till maybe march. Now i have been waking up 3-4 times a night with both of my forearms and hands torally asleep and in agonizing pain. It is seeiously starting to effect my sleep. Also, at work, feeding/pulling wire, fiddling with strut straps, couplings, basically anything, my hands go numb withing 10 minutes. Now i seem to have permanent numbness in my middle, index fingers, and thumbs on both hands that has not subsided since thursday last week, only gets more pronounced with repitituous hand/wrist movements.
I am going to make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist, as this is really starying to concern me. It hurts, and interferes with my life and work.
Could this be grounds for workers comp? I am not trying to burm a bridge with the contractor i work for, but im afraid i may be out of commision for a few weeks if i end up having to have surgery. Also im not sure how even having a doctors request of "no heavy lifting/hand stuff" would go over. I cant afford to not work right now.
Never had to navigate an injury with work before, any insight/guidance is appreciated. Thanks.