All workers have a right to do their job duties without suffering from an injury. While most employers do a good job at keeping risks minimal, things sometimes slip through the cracks. Back injuries are one type that might not always come to mind when thinking about the risks that workers face.
Some jobs, such as factory work or construction, are commonly thought of when a person is considering occupations that might lead to back pain. Those individuals may not realize that even office workers are at risk of back pain due to work conditions.
What factors contribute to back pain?
There are several work-related factors that can contribute to back pain. While some pain is caused by an injury suffered in an accident, other factors can also come into the picture. These include:
- Being inactive, such as sitting at a desk, throughout the work hours can be problematic for the back.
- Heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling can lead to excessive pressure on the back, which can cause injuries.
- Repetitive motions, such as repeated twisting or bending, can lead to back injuries.
It’s important to remember that not all back injuries lead to sudden and severe pain. Some of these injuries happen over time, so the person might start to experience discomfort first. As time goes on, the pain increases to the point that the person is truly suffering.
Any worker who suffers from a back injury due to work conditions should remember that they can seek worker’s compensation benefits. These will pay for medical care, as well as part of their lost wages if they’re unable to return to work right after the injury occurs. These cases sometimes require the help of someone familiar with worker’s compensation, especially if there’s an appeal necessary.