Many people around the country are struggling with mild to severe back pain. For a significant majority, the back pain comes from their occupation, given the long periods spent working. Back pain has been ranked among the costliest conditions, and seeking treatment may take a toll on anyone’s finances.
If you are among the over 60 million Americans who report recent episodes of back pain, it may be time to take the next step of action if your injury is work-related.
Common back injuries and symptoms to watch
There are several types of back injuries, depending on their nature. The most common back injuries are fractured vertebra, bulging or herniated discs, sprains, and strains.
The signs and symptoms of back injuries depend on their severity, and in extreme cases, you may even lose mobility. The symptoms to look out for may include:
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Difficulty standing up straight, walking, or bending
- Pain that intensifies with specific movements
- Bruising, swelling, pain, or tenderness
- Pain that spreads down one or both your legs
Back injuries can lower your quality of life
Studies have shown that persistent back pain can lower the quality of your life. Simple tasks may not be so easy anymore. What’s more, some back injuries take time to manifest, which makes treatment difficult. If you developed your chronic back pain due to your job, you might need to weigh your options carefully.
When your workers’ compensation claim isn’t going as you anticipated and your back pain makes it impossible to work, it’s wise to learn more about your rights. That way, you can make an informed choice about your next steps.