Carpal and Cubital Tunnel at Work in Oklahoma: What Injured Workers Need to Know

Carpal and Cubital Tunnel workers’ compensation cases are prevalent in Oklahoma. They belong to a class of Repetitive-use injuries. Two of the most frequently misunderstood and therefore denied claims are carpal and cubital tunnel syndrome. Although the names sound similar—and both involve nerve compression—they affect different parts of the arm, cause different symptoms, and may require different medical treatment. Understanding the distinction can also be important when filing an Oklahoma workers’ compensation claim.

Below is a clear explanation of the differences, how these injuries happen at work, and what you should know if you’re considering filing a claim.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the “carpal tunnel,” a narrow passageway in the wrist.

Common Causes in the Workplace

Carpal tunnel is frequently linked to:

• Repetitive hand and wrist movements
• Typing or data entry
• Assembly line work
• Using vibrating tools
• Continuous gripping or pinching motions

Typical Symptoms

Workers often report:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, or half of the ring finger
• Wrist pain that may radiate into the hand or forearm
• Weak grip strength
• Dropping objects
• Symptoms that worsen at night or during heavy hand use

What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed at the elbow, particularly in the area commonly known as the “funny bone.”

Common Causes in the Workplace

Cubital tunnel can develop from:

• Leaning on the elbow for long periods
• Repetitive bending of the elbow
• Holding the elbow in a bent position (driving, equipment operation, phone use)
• Frequent pushing, pulling, or lifting motions
• Vibration exposure

Typical Symptoms

Unlike carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel affects the different nerve and different part of the arm, leading to symptoms such as:

• Numbness or tingling in the ring finger and little finger
• Pain or aching on the inside of the elbow
• Weak grip or difficulty with fine motor tasks
• Loss of finger coordination
• Hand weakness or muscle wasting in severe cases

Key Differences Between Carpal and Cubital Tunnel

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome	Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Compression of median nerve	Compression of ulnar nerve
Located in wrist	Located in elbow
Causes numbness/tingling in thumb, index, middle fingers	Causes numbness/tingling in ring and little fingers
Often from repetitive hand/wrist use	Often from repetitive elbow bending or pressure
Pain spreads into hand or forearm	Pain spreads into forearm or hand (ulnar side)

Understanding these differences helps your doctor make the right diagnosis—and helps your workers’ compensation attorney build an accurate claim.

Are Carpal and Cubital Tunnel Injuries Compensable in Oklahoma?

Yes—both conditions can be compensable under the Oklahoma workers’ compensation Commission law if they arise out of and in the course of employment.

You may be entitled to:

• Medical treatment
• Temporary total disability benefits while you recover
• Permanent partial disability benefits if a lasting impairment exists
• Reimbursement for travel to medical appointments
• Vocational rehabilitation in more serious cases

Oklahoma employers and insurance carriers often dispute these claims, arguing that repetitive-use injuries are “pre-existing,” “degenerative,” or “not work-related.” Proper medical documentation—and an attorney who understands the mechanics of these injuries—can make all the difference.

Why These Claims Often Require a Lawyer

Tunnel injuries are among the most commonly denied or undervalued workers’ compensation claims because:

• Symptoms develop gradually rather than from a single incident
• Employers argue the condition was caused by non-work activities
• Insurance companies demand proof of repetitive motion
• Nerve conduction studies and specialist referrals are often delayed

A knowledgeable Oklahoma workers’ compensation attorney can gather medical evidence, secure the proper evaluations, and advocate for the full benefits the worker is entitled to.

Oklahoma Workers Comp Lawyer Near You

Carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel injuries can severely impact your ability to work and your quality of life. If you believe your repetitive work activities caused or aggravated either condition, our office can help you understand your rights and secure the benefits you deserve. Contact the Tulsa workers’ compensation attorneys at Kania Law Office today to schedule a free consultation. We represent injured workers across Oklahoma and are ready to fight for the medical care and compensation you are owed.