John C. Nycum v. Triangle Dairy Company

This is an appeal from an order of the Industrial Commission denying appellant's claim for workmen's compensation benefits. Appellant contends that his flexor tenosynovitis (impairment of tendons in the hand) was contracted as a result of his employment with respondent Triangle Dairy. The commission found otherwise and held that his hand condition was causally related to appellant's diabetes and not to his employment. We have reviewed the record and conclude that the commission's order was supported by substantial, competent evidence and therefore affirm the order denying benefits. Appellant John Nycum is a diabetic, having been insulin dependent since age 11. At age 32, Mr. Nycum began his employment with Triangle Dairy in February of 1980 as a route salesman. The job of route salesman entailed, among other things, lifting and moving cartons (wire baskets) of milk weighing approximately 50 to 60 pounds. In late July of 1980, Mr. Nycum noticed that his hands were swelling, and as his work continued throughout the summer so did the swelling and pain. His hand condition grew worse during the holiday season at the close of 1980.