According to the United States Department of Labor, over 600,000 people suffer back injuries every year at their jobs. These injuries can cause chronic pain and limitations of movement that dramatically alter their abilities to work and their overall quality of life.
If you hurt your back at your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under Florida law.
Top Causes of Workplace Back Injuries
Back injuries can be caused by the actions of employers and employees. Some of the top causes of these injuries include:
- Lack of training. Many back injuries occur when employers fail to train their workers in proper lifting techniques; or don't provide tools and equipment that can help employees lift in the right ways.
- Improper lifting techniques. Some people can cause their injuries by improper lifting techniques even if they receive training. Often this is due to job pressures, or rushing to complete a task to get to the next one.
- Overexertion. Lifting or moving objects that are too heavy puts too much strain on an individual’s back and leads to serious injuries.
- Repetitive motions. When workers perform repetitive motions that involve using back muscles or twisting and turning the spine, this can cause serious conditions over time.
- Inactivity. Back injuries can also be caused by inactivity, such as when someone is required to sit at a desk in the same position every day. Poor posture and the lack of a chair with proper support can increase this risk.
- Falls. When people work at heights and fall, they can suffer a catastrophic back injury. Slip and fall accidents are also a common cause of these injuries.
Back Injuries Due to Workplace Accidents
Some common types of injuries include:
- Back strains and sprains
- Bulging and herniated disks
- Pinched nerves
- Vertebrae fractures
- Spinal injuries
Treatments for back problems are often extensive and lengthy. Surgery is sometimes required but is often not recommended until less evasive procedures are tried, such as rest, pain medication, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.
We Can Help
Did you suffer a back injury on the job? Under Florida’s no-fault workers’ compensation system, you may be entitled to benefits, even if you had some culpability in the accident. To learn more about your legal rights and how we can assist you, start an online chat to schedule a free consultation.
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