Signs Your Job Could Be Taking a Toll on Your Back

Does Your Job Cause You to Bend and Lift Repeatedly?

Does your job require you to lift boxes all day or bend to pick up items? Are you now dealing with back pain that comes and goes or doesn’t stop at all? This pain could be a back strain or sprain, which means you need to speak with a doctor about it as soon as possible. If left unattended, these types of injuries can cause further or permanent damage. It is recommended that you have it checked before it gets any worse.

So, what are back strains, and what do they do?  A back strain is when the muscles in your back area have been pulled, twisted and in some cases torn. A back strain, on the other hand, is when the ligaments in your back have been stretched or torn. Both of these injuries are quite common, and when you work a job that causes you to make repetitive motions, they can increase in frequency and pain level. If you were, injured at work in New York, you must file a notice with your employer and NYS Workers’ Compensation Board.

Knowing the Signs of a Repetitive Movement Injury

Back strains and sprains are common on the job injuries and need to be taken care of to avoid continued pain in the future. It is vital that you are aware of the signs of a repetitive movement injury and how it can affect you and your work.

Low back pain is a frequent complaint when you have been at work all day. Whether you walk or stand for long periods, your back can ache and cause discomfort. You may get home and rest, to feel better the next morning. However, if you find that resting and pain medicine is not relieving the ache in your back or that the pain is getting worse, it is time to find a doctor and discuss your symptoms.

Other symptoms of this type of workplace injury can include tingling in the area of the pain, stiffness that makes movements more difficult, cramps and muscle spasms, or numbness. All of these are signs that it is time to see your doctor and discuss your options.

Where to Get Treatment for Back Injuries

If you have noticed any of the signs of a workplace back injury, there are many different doctors you may need to see and just as many treatment options, for the recovery process. The most common are listed below.

Chiropractor

Chiropractors can help relieve back pain in some cases through the manipulation of the spinal area related to your injury. They will be able to check your back for any misalignments that were caused by the strain and pressure of the surrounding muscles. They will also be able to help you start a routine for daily stretches and provide you with techniques for lifting and standing to avoid future injuries at work.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy treatment is a whole-body approach to recuperation. Physiotherapy can help you recover from your injury through stretches and exercises that are beneficial for your whole body. They will also help you develop a routine for continued health, involving stretches, exercise, proper posture, dietary plans, and more.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can be especially helpful with back strains. This treatment will help relieve the pain in the muscles by working out the tension that is causing the stress. Your massage therapist can also help you with relaxation methods that can be practiced at home for further relief and quicker recovery.

Pain Management

Pain management will help to relieve the pain you are suffering because of your back injury. This treatment method can include medications to ease the pain as well as ones that help to relax the muscles in the area of the strain or sprain.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can involve many different methods, such as massage, stretches, exercises, heat treatments, and more. The object of this type of treatment is to help work through the back strain and regain a full range of motion and return you to your previous self.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be used for relaxation as well as pain relief. During the acupuncture treatment, a set of very thin needles will be strategically placed into your body. The acupuncturist will know the precise areas to put the needles for helping the afflicted area you are dealing with.

Get Help Now

Remember, if you are dealing with back pain due to a workplace repetitive movement injury, it is essential that you seek prompt medical attention to lower the risks of any further damage to the area. Also, in New York, for your bills to be covered by the Workers’ Compensation insurance, you have to make sure that your treating physician is authorized by the NYS WCB.