When you spend all day working on your feet, it’s only natural for your back to end up hurting. It’s not an unhappy thought. Back pain is the second most common injury in the workplace, after fall injuries.
The good news is that most back injuries don’t cause permanent damage or serious setbacks. Minor strains and sprains often resolve themselves after a few days of rest. When you’re injured, the last thing you want to do is sit still.
Our guide will help you know what steps to take after a back injury at work.
Recognize the Severity of Your Injury
The most important step to take after a back injury at work is to recognize the severity of your injury. Even if you think it’s minor, it’s important to take the appropriate course of action.
To assess the severity of the injury, seek advice from a medical professional. Review any incident reports, and do an X-ray or MRI scan if a doctor recommends it.
Once you understand the extent of the injury, it’s important to speak to your employer and notify them of the incident and its severity. Make sure you get a copy of a full report to keep and document all the information provided.
Follow the Doctor’s Instructions
After suffering back pain at work, it is imperative to follow the doctor’s instructions. Follow the doctor’s orders on taking time off work. Attend physical therapy appointments, and return to work with restrictions.
It is important to take good care of yourself. Eat healthy, get enough rest, and find activities that provide physical and mental relaxation, such as yoga and meditation.
Take proactive steps to prevent further injuries. Such as wearing back braces or lumbar supports when lifting or straining. Avoid carrying any objects that are heavier than what you can lift.
Contact Your Employer
When you get in a work accident and sustain injuries, make sure that you are able to inform your employer. Make sure to note how the incident occurred and be honest about the severity of the injury.
Depending on the company policy, the employee may need to submit an accident report or workplace injury report. Following that, document any work-related expenses or wages lost due to the injury. The worker’s compensation may depend on the severity of the injury.
Research Your Rights as an Employee
If you have sustained an injury at work, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure the protection of your rights as an employee. If you are concerned about any violations of safety standards or workplace regulations, contact your local Occupational Safety and Health Administration office.
Depending on the nature of the workplace, you may avail of both short-term and long-term disability benefits. Finally, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to make sure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
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Documenting All Evidence of Injury
Start by keeping a record of any symptoms you are experiencing, such as pain, stiffness, loss of range of motion, and overall discomfort. Also, note any restrictions you may face due to the injury, such as limited hours or a need to take frequent breaks.
Take pictures of the incident location, including the equipment or area where the injury took place, as well as any other contributing conditions that may have impacted the injury. Finally, document reports of communicating with colleagues or management who were involved or had knowledge of the incident.
Be sure to keep a detailed account of all conversations, emails, and other documentation related to your experience and injury. Doing so will not only provide solid evidence but can be invaluable if legal action is taken.
Filing a Worker’s Compensation Claim
You may be eligible to file a worker’s compensation claim with your state or local government if you have suffered a work-related injury. Contact your state or local government if you can get an application to file a claim. When filing a claim, provide details about the incident and gather any available witness information.
You will also be likely asked to submit any medical reports or other documents to complete the claim. It is important to follow treatment plans and keep detailed records of your recovery. Additionally, keep in touch with your employer, supervisor, or worker’s compensation representative.
Consider Chiropractic Care
Seek out physical or occupational therapy to help you reduce pain and discomfort. Better understand why the injury occurred, and learn how to prevent future injuries. Also, discuss with your healthcare provider any medications or supplements that may help ease your pain and speed up recovery.
A healthcare professional may suggest chiropractic care, physiotherapy, or massage therapy. Depending on the injury, they may also recommend specific exercises and physical therapy to build strength and flexibility.
Your chiropractor will assess your case. They will also develop a custom treatment plan to best address your specific needs. They take into consideration your activity levels, posture, and biomechanics of your spine.
Chiropractic care can also improve the function of the spine, aid in the proper healing of the injury, and help prevent further injuries. Visit a family chiropractic clinic to get proper treatment for your back pain.
Consider Legal Action
If necessary, consider legal action. This includes filing a workers’ compensation claim, identifying any party responsible for your injury, filing a lawsuit to seek compensation, or filing a claim with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Make sure to hire an attorney who specializes in workplace accidents, as well as someone who has experience with workers’ compensation cases. It may also be advantageous to hire a lawyer who has extensive knowledge of your local area, as laws can change depending on which area you’re in.
For example, if you reside in Los Angeles, then searching for a workers compensation lawyer Los Angeles should be your first port of call, as they will be able to guide you through the process while adhering to any local laws. They will also help gather evidence, interview witnesses and assess the value of the case.
Follow These Steps When You Experience a Back Injury at Work
After a back injury at work, follow these steps to ensure a proper recovery before you return. Seek medical attention, file an injury report, and follow through on your treatment plan.
Working together with your employer, doctor, and insurance to ensure a comprehensive recovery will have you back to work as soon as possible. If you need any help, don’t hesitate to contact an attorney who specializes in workplace injuries.
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