If you’re at work and make the mistake of picking up something too heavy, twisting the wrong way or even slipping on a surface, you could end up with a back injury. A back injury is an umbrella term, because there are all kinds of specific injuries you could have from your accident.
Some of the most common back injuries people suffer on the job include overexertion injuries, sprains, strains and damaged or ruptured discs. All of these require medical attention, so that you can avoid living in pain or with dysfunction as a result of your injuries.
What are the major causes of back injuries in the workplace?
To avoid back injuries, you have to watch out for the major causes of back trauma in the workplace. Some of the major causes include:
- Improperly lifting items
- Rushing to get a job done (and carrying too much or skipping the use of protective equipment)
- Insufficient training
All of these causes could lead to individuals suffering serious injuries that may require medical care, hospitalization, surgery or long-term physical therapy.
It’s possible to prevent back injuries
It is possible to make changes that help prevent back injuries. Making sure that your team, and you, have solid training on personal protective equipment that helps stabilize your back while lifting, or on machinery that can lift for you, may help you prevent serious injuries. Training on safety in the workplace may also limit falls and other hazards that could lead to back injuries.
If you do get hurt on the job, remember that workers’ compensation coverage should be available. Talk to your employer about starting a claim so that you can get the coverage you need.