Relevant Details
- Age group: 50-55
- Injuries: Wrists, Hands, Psychological
- Occupation: Administrative
Nature of Claim
The claimant lodged a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claim through their
superannuation fund following the development of significant hand and wrist symptoms
which they first experienced whilst working. The claimant also suffered a secondary
psychological injury due to the severity of their physical impairment.
Background and Employment
The claimant was employed in an administrative role that required extensive and prolonged
computer and mouse work. Symptoms began as intermittent pins and needles, pain,
numbness, and stiffness in both wrists. But as their pain worsened and their dexterity
became more restricted, the claimant’s ability to continue working was ultimately
compromised.
The claimant initially took a short period off work as guided by a General Practitioner during
which the symptoms slightly reduced. But after briefly returning to work and experiencing a
sudden increase in symptomology, the claimant realised they were totally incapable of
working.
Medical History and Treatment
- The claimant consulted a general practitioner, who ordered ultrasounds and referred to an orthopaedic surgeon.
- Nerve conduction studies confirmed moderate median neuropathy in the wrists (right worse than left).
- Surgical intervention was performed on the right wrist but symptoms worsened post–operatively, including increased pins and needles, pain and numbness.
- The claimant suffered psychological symptoms that developed secondary to their physical injuries and sought psychological treatment.
- The claimant was eventually assessed as having reached maximum medical improvement, with no further active treatment recommended.
- The claimant’s general practitioner determined the claimant was totally and permanently disabled by their physical and psychological injuries.
Claim Process
- Main Lawyers assisted the claimant in contacting the relevant superfunds and obtaining the relevant TPD claim forms.
- The claim forms were completed and lodged with the respective superfunds whereby they were vetted and sent to the insurer for claim assessment.
- The claim was supported by medical evidence including reports from treating practitioners and independent medical examiners.
- The insurer reviewed the claim including the circumstances of injury, medical history, and the impact on the claimant’s ability to work.
- The insurers were satisfied that due to the injuries, that it was unlikely that the claimant would ever return to gainful employment within their previous education, training or experience.
- The TPD claims were ultimately approved and the claimant was paid their TPD insurance benefit and able to access their superannuation balance early.
The Result
The claimant achieved two successful TPD claims against two separate superannuation
funds inside of six (6) months, resulting in a significant TPD benefit payment to the client.
