Douglas Toalston v. Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc.

This workers’ compensation appeal has been referred to the Special Workers’ Compensation Appeals Panel of the Supreme Court in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated section 50-6-225(e)(3) for a hearing and a report of findings of fact and conclusions of law. The Employee developed lateral epicondylitis as a result of his work activities, and the Employer provided medical treatment for the injury. The Employee’s symptoms were not relieved, and he sought and received a second opinion through his Employer. Both authorized physicians concluded that the Employee had no permanent impairment. The Employee sought an evaluation from an unauthorized physician, who diagnosed carpal tunnel syndrome in addition to lateral epicondylitis. That physician performed surgery and assigned permanent impairment. The Employee sought permanent disability benefits, and the Employer denied liability. The trial court awarded 30% permanent partial disability to the right arm. The Employer has appealed arguing that the evidence preponderates against the trial court’s findings. We affirm the judgment.