Consumer Help

Back Injury Overview

Whether it's dull and nagging or unbearable, trying to concentrate on your daily work agenda can be difficult if you suffer from a back injury or back pain. There are a number of occupations, such as waiting tables, construction, or working on an assembly line, where you are forced to be on your feet for the majority of your shift making you susceptible to a back injury. The physical demands involved can put a lot of strain on your back. Even the day-to-day routine inside the office can be detrimental to your back if you perform risky procedures in which your back is prone to aggravation. But, you can shun back pain and injuries if you realize what causes them and understand how to prevent them.

Doctors still have not been able to determine all of the variables that contribute to back pain. Besides, most back troubles are usually a fusion of factors. Common types of back injuries include spinal cord injury, slipped discs, compression fractures, and whiplash. Many back, neck, and spinal cord injuries are the result of car accidents, sports accidents, falls or lifting heavy objects. Weight, fitness, and flexibility can also contribute to back pain but can be managed with basic lifestyle adjustments. However, some factors are going to be attributed to occupational duties, and depending on the job, you may not be able to alter your routine in order to reduce the risk of injury.

Risk Factors

There are four risk factors that will increase the odds of back injury or spinal cord injury:

1. Force and putting too much stress on your body can result in a back injury. If your occupation involves physical labor, you may harm yourself if you often lift or transport heavy items.
2. Repetition is the amount of times you carry out a certain physical task. Overdoing it can cause your muscles to tire and break down, especially if it includes stretching them to their limits or an awkward stance.
3. Posture can be defined as your body's arrangement when standing, sitting, or carrying out an assignment. For example, if your job entails sitting in front of a computer, you may notice sporadic soreness from remaining in the same position for an extended length of time. The average person's body can typically only stay in the same position for 20 minutes before experiencing an uncomfortable feeling.
4. Stress from high demands at home or the workplace can boost your level of stress and contribute to tense muscles. This can eventually cause your back to ache.