If you are injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who get injured or become ill as a result of their job. It’s important, however, to be aware of the types of injuries covered by workers’ compensation. Here are five common examples of workplace back injuries.
Lumbar sprain or strain
A lumbar sprain or strain is a common injury among manual laborers, such as those who work in construction or landscaping fields. These types of injuries occur when the muscles and tendons in the lower back get stretched or torn due to physical exertion. Symptoms of this type of injury include soreness, tenderness and limited range of motion.
Herniated discs
A herniated disc is an injury that occurs when a tear in the outer layer of a spinal disc allows the inner layer to bulge out. This can cause pain and numbness in the lower back as well as weakness or tingling in the legs and feet. Sometimes, surgery may be necessary to repair the herniation.
Spinal fractures
Spinal fractures are a serious type of workplace injury that can occur when the spine gets subjected to significant force or trauma. These fractures can range from minor to severe, and symptoms include pain, numbness and paralysis in the affected area. Workers’ compensation claims for spinal fractures are often complicated, so it’s important to report the injury as soon as possible.
Sciatica
Sciatica is a medical condition that involves the compression of the sciatic nerve in the lower back. One of the most common causes of sciatica is a herniated disc, which can lead to pain and numbness in the lower back, buttocks and legs.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one vertebra slips over another, resulting in instability and pain in the affected area. Symptoms of spondylolisthesis include lower back pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion.
If you have experienced any of these injuries while on the job, it’s important to seek medical attention right away and report your injury to your employer. You may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits that can help cover medical expenses and lost wages.