Back injuries like strained muscles, disc degeneration, herniated discs and torn or pulled ligaments are some of the common injuries sustained by healthcare workers. Healthcare workers like nurses are susceptible to these injuries thanks to the nature of their work.
If you have suffered back injuries while performing your nursing or employer-related duties, you may be entitled to compensation through the workers’ compensation program.
Back injury stats among healthcare workers
Back injuries affect well over 38 percent of healthcare nurses in the U.S. This makes it one of the leading occupational hazards among healthcare workers.
But how do these injuries happen?
Back injuries among healthcare workers are generally attributed to cumulative trauma to the musculoskeletal system. This trauma is caused by routine tasks that these professionals perform on a day-to-day basis. Overuse, repetitive motions and strains build up over time to cause painful and, sometimes, life-altering injury to the back.
Here are day-to-day duties that can eventually lead to back injuries among healthcare providers:
- Manual lifting when transferring or repositioning patients or when moving heavy equipment without help.
- Working in an uncomfortable position such as standing for long hours while holding objects during surgery
- Transferring (pulling and pushing) patients on wheelchairs and stretchers
- Use of impact or vibrating tools for extended time periods
- Poor standing or sitting postures or use of non-ergonomic shoes
Pursuing damages
Back injuries can be debilitating. If you develop chronic back pain that is linked to your work, you need to seek financial restitution for medical expenses, lost income and other damages. Learning how the California workers’ compensation claims process works can help you pursue the damages you are entitled to following your back injury.
