Did you or your family member sustain a back injury while on the job? You are not alone. Back injuries are among the most common workplace ailments—they account for nearly 20%of all work-related impairments. You have the right to file for workers’ comp for a back injury. In this article, our Fresno workers’ compensation attorney provides an overview of the data for workplace back injuries and highlights the steps you should take if you are injured while on the job.
More than One Million Workers Suffer Back Injuries Each Year
Unfortunately, back injuries are a common work-related ailment. According to data cited by SafetyNow, more than one million job-related back injuries are reported in the United States each year in work environments. To be clear, that means that back injuries represent a considerable portion of all workplace-related injuries—they could account for up to 20% of the total.
An Overview of the Most Common Job-Related Back Injuries
Back injuries come in a wide range of different forms—varying considerably in their nature and severity. Some back injuries occur as the result of a single accident (specific injury). Other back injuries occur more gradually over time as a consequence of repetitive strain (cumulative trauma). Here is an overview of the most common workplace back injuries in California:
- Muscle Strains and Ligament Sprains: These are the most frequent types of back injuries—often resulting from lifting heavy objects, other sudden movements, or prolonged challenging posture.
- Herniated Discs: A herniated disc occurs when the soft cushioning material between the spinal vertebrae protrudes out. It can happen due to a strain or wear and tear.
- Sciatica: Sciatica is a pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve. That nerve extends from the lower back down to the legs.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Disc disease involves the discs between the vertebrae deteriorating or breaking down—causing pain, weakness, or numbness.
- Spinal Stenosis: Spinal Stenosis is characterized by the narrowing of spaces within the spine, this condition can put pressure on the nerves, often causing pain or numbness.
- Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition that occurs when a vertebra slips out of place, often due to a stress fracture or degenerative disease.
What to Do if You Suffered a Back Injury at Work in Fresno, CA
If you or your loved one suffered a serious work-related back injury, it is crucial that you know what to do next to protect your health and your rights. Steps to take include:
- Get immediate medical attention;
- Notify your supervisor/employer of the back injury;
- Document the cause and severity of the back injury;
- Prepare to file for workers’ comp benefits.
Call Our Fresno Workers’ Comp Lawyer for Immediate Assistance
As an experienced workers’ compensation attorney, Joseph C. Yrulegui has the knowledge, skills, and experience that you can trust if you or a loved one suffered a back injury while on the job, we are here to help. Give us a phone call now or connect with us directly online to arrange your completely confidential, no-obligation case evaluation.