Preventing Back Injuries In The Workplace

Back injuries can happen anywhere, but they are increasingly common in the workplace. Approximately 20% of workplace injuries involve back injuries.

Many back injuries are caused by everyday activities done improperly, such as lifting. Warehouses and offices often have heavy boxes and items that are not properly stored, requiring lifting. That’s why it’s a good idea to store items at waist level, rather than directly on the floor. When you have to lift from the floor, it’s twice as risky. That’s because when you lift up, you’re also lifting the weight of your upper body. You’re also putting unnecessary stress on your knees, making them more likely to get injured.

You also don’t want to keep heavy objects too high. Those items can fall on someone and cause significant injury. Plus, you can suffer shoulder and neck injuries if you lift heavy items above your shoulders.

Types of Back Pain

When a person develops back injuries from a workplace accident or injury, they can suffer from two main types:

Acute back pain is short-term and may last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. It’s primarily caused by lifting something that’s too heavy, but can also be caused by a fall or accident. Acute back pain typically requires no medical treatment and gets better on its own.
Chronic back pain can last several months or much longer. Medications can help reduce the pain, but massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic care may also be recommended. Your doctor may also recommend injections and nerve blocks.

How to Prevent Back Pain

Back pain can be frustrating to deal with. You may suffer from mobility issues and even be unable to work. You can prevent back pain by keeping your back muscles strong. Here are some ways to do so:

Stretch your back and do exercises several times a week.
Use good posture by standing and sitting up straight.
Live a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy foods and keep your weight down. Try to stay active and exercise regularly.
Sleep on your side to keep weight off your back.
Reduce stress. Stress causes muscle tension, which can lead to back pain. Keep stress at bay with help from yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and tai chi.
If you must lift something heavy, bend your knees and keep your back straight.

Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Many workplace accidents involve back injuries, so it’s a good idea to know how to prevent them so you can stay healthy. Exercise, healthy eating, and stress reduction can keep your back pain-free and in proper form.

Workplace accident claims can be complex. While workers’ compensation benefits are typically available, you may be severely injured and need more compensation to recover. The Morristown work-related accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you with successful physical and financial recovery. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (973) 455-1567.

Resource:

ehs.virginia.edu/Ergonomics-BIP.html#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Bureau%20of,with%20manual%20materials%20handling%20tasks.