Taking Two Steps Back: Common Workplace Back Injuries

Oh, My Aching Back

You work hard, and the pain in your back proves it. You’re not sure if you hurt your back in a single specific incident, or if it was the cumulative result of years of labor. Whatever the cause, you recently spent a few days in University Hospital because you were unable to move without excruciating pain.

The doctor has released you, but he has advised you not to work. You’re unsure of how you are going to make ends meet without a paycheck. Fortunately, workers’ compensation may be available to you, allowing you to recover while not having to worry about your finances.

Common On-the-Job Back Injuries

Back injuries are the most common work-related musculoskeletal injury; they happen to thousands of employees each year. Here, we discuss some of the most prevalent back injuries:

Ligament and muscle strains and sprains.

Moving the wrong way, twisting, or repeating damaging movements over and over again can cause ligaments and muscles to become strained and sprained. Sometimes the pain is so severe that employees aren’t able to walk, or even move, let alone work.

Disc problems.

Your spine is comprised of vertebrae, and in between the vertebrae sit discs, which act as shock absorbers. Inside the disc is a jelly-like substance which can push against the outer ring after an accident or because of wear and tear. This pressure can cause extreme pain.

Pinched nerves.

Nerve injury can cause pain in the back and legs. Nerves can become injured over time because of repetitive motion, or a herniated disc can press against them and cause discomfort.

Are You Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?

If your back pain is caused by an injury that occurred at work, you could be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. The ailment doesn’t have to be caused by one accident; it could also be the result of many movements over time.

Have You Been Injured At Work?

If you’ve been injured on the job you need to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Augusta office directly at 706.863.6600 to schedule your free consultation.