Back injuries are commonly associated with jobs that are physically demanding, such as construction, landscaping or other manual labor jobs.
However, any New York office worker will probably tell you that they have often experienced back pain after a long day at work. The reality is that there are many jobs where back pain is common.
Why you should take back pain seriously
Back pain can lead to a back injury. Even minor back injuries can prevent you from being able to do your job.
Drivers are at risk for back injuries. Whether you are a truck driver, taxi driver or rideshare driver, you spend a lot of time sitting in one position behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Health care industry workers are also at high risk for back pain that leads to back injuries. Nurses spend a lot of time on their feet, as do dentists and their staff.
Dental workers, in particular, are not only on their feet a lot, but they must often hold the same position for long periods of time.
Auto mechanics face the same risk. Twisting and maneuvering into difficult positions to work on a vehicle can take a large toll on the back.
Reducing your chance of a back injury
No matter what your job is, take proper precautions to prevent strain on your back. There are many things you can do to reduce back pain, such as using proper posture, wearing proper clothing and stretching your body every so often.
If you do sustain a back injury due to work conditions, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to you. Benefits can cover your medical expenses and lost wages.
However, filing a workers’ compensation claim and navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging, so having a workers’ compensation attorney on your side can help.