Back injuries and workers’ compensation

No matter what type of job you have, back injuries are possible. Not only can back pain make it difficult for you to concentrate and stay productive at your job, but it can also impact your daily life. Everything from office to factory work can cause or contribute to back pain.

It is important to understand the causes ofback injuries in the workplaceand how to prevent them. Additionally, you should know how to pursue a workers’ compensation claim for a back injury.

Causes and factors

Various tasks and circumstances cancause back pain and injuries, including the following:

• Repetitive motions:Repeating some movements, especially ones that rotate or twist your spine, can strain your back.
• Force:Exerting force on your back by moving or lifting heavy objects can result in injury.
• Inactivity:Even inactive jobs can cause back pain, especially with poor ergonomics and poor back support.

Whether you work in a manufacturing warehouse or a cubicle, back injuries are a serious risk.

Prevention tips

There are plenty of steps you can take to avoid back pain and injuries:

• Lift with proper techniques:Use your legs and core muscles when carrying and lifting heavy objects. Hold the item close to your body and keep the natural curve in your back. Ask for help if something is too heavy. Avoid twisting while lifting.
• Fix your posture:Avoid slouching while standing by balancing the weight evenly on both of your feet. When sitting, use chairs that support your spinal curve.
• Change positions and rest:If you stand or sit for long periods of time, make sure you listen to your body. Take short breaks, walk around and gently stretch.

Even minor changes can help you stop pain from occurring or getting worse.

Receiving compensation

If your job causes you to sustain a back injury, you may have the option to pursue compensation. The first and most important step is reporting the accident to your employer as soon as possible – there is a30-day deadlinein North Carolina.