Back Strain Prevention Tips

Back strain is one of the most common types of injury that occurs in the workplace. Whether you are on your feet all day or spend most of your time at a desk, you could be at risk of back strain if you do not use proper posture and technique while working. Knowing the steps that you can take to prevent back strain can help to minimize your chance of experiencing this common workplace injury.

How Does Back Strain Occur?

Back strain is an injury caused by wrenching, twisting, compressing, or otherwise contorting the back in a way that causes harm to the back muscles or ligaments. Many workers strain their backs when lifting heavy objects or overreaching for an object. However, back strain can also occur subtly over a long period, becoming more painful over time. Sitting at a desk without proper back support, for example, puts excess strain on the lower back muscles that can eventually lead to injury.

Tips to Minimize Back Strain

Stretching and resting your back throughout the day are both important to maintaining good back health. Below is a list of tips to help you reduce your risk of injury:

When sitting or standing, always keep your back straight with your torso aligned over your hips. Positioning your back rest to fully support your lower back can greatly help to reduce strain. Before lifting a heavy object, first test the weight of the item by nudging it with your foot. If the item seems too heavy or awkward to lift alone, ask for help or use machinery such as a forklift to do the lifting. When lifting an object, first squat low to pick the object up, holding it close to your chest. Then, keeping your back straight, lift through your legs to stand up and carry the object. Never bend or wrench your back when lifting or setting down an object. Stretch several times during the work day. Stretches should be performed slowly and gently for a few minutes to relieve tightness and pressure in the back.

While these preventative steps can help to minimize your risk of back strain, sometimes back injuries are unavoidable. If you have been injured on the job, you may be eligible to collect workers' compensation benefits from your employer. An experienced workers' compensation attorney can help you successfully file for your benefits and will represent your case to help you pursue the compensation that you need.

For More Information

To learn more about workplace injuries and collecting workers' compensation, visit the website of the lawyers of Levinson Axelrod, P.A. today.