While the workplace may currently look different for employees in Illinois and elsewhere, the reality is that injuries could occur in any work environment. Whether one never left the workplace, has returned back to the workplace or is currently working remotely at home, workplace injuries could still occur.
Work-related back injury
One type of injury that continues to prevail in all workplace environments is back injuries. For some, back injuries can lead to ongoing back pain, causing one to suffer greatly. Roughly 80% of all adults experience a back injury in their lifetime, with 5% experiencing a chronic and disabling condition as a result.
Currently, the top cause for a back injury is a job-related incident. Additionally, more than one million back injuries are suffered in the workplace each year. Finally, back pain is the source for more than 264 million lost work days a year.
Back injury statistics
Roughly one in every five workplace injuries is a back injury. With regards to sick days and time away from work, 38.5% are due to back injuries and pain. While all work environments could cause a risk for a back injury, there are five occupations that stand out the most. This includes nursing assistants, stock and order fillers, laborers, maintenance and repair workers and janitors and cleaners.
A workspace could contribute to back injuries. Improper chairs or arraignment of a desk and computer could lead to back pain and injuries. It was established that roughly one-third of work-related back injuries could have been prevented if the workspace was designed better and ergonomically.
When an employee suffers a back injury, it is important that he or she understand that it could be related to their job and work environment. Thus, is it imperative to consider one’s options when it comes to seeking workers’ compensation while also obtaining the medical treatment necessary to address the injury or chronic pain.
