Understanding Workplace Back Injuries
Every so often, many workers experience some back pain intermittently that resolves on its own. However, there are many ways to injure a back in a workplace environment, and tragically, the injuries can be much more substantial than a simple backache.
Local 10 News recently reported that a crane had to be used to bring down a construction worker from the fifth floor of a building after he suffered a back injury in a morning accident. Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue authorities asserted that the worker was injured from a piece of equipment that rolled over and hit him. The piece of equipment reportedly weighed about 1,500 pounds, leading to a substantial back injury for the 35-year-old and leaving him stranded on the fifth floor of the unfinished building until he was rescued by authorities.
How Often Do Workers Injure Their Backs?
Perhaps it is unsurprising because there are so many ways to injure a back, but back injuries are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicated that in 2016, musculoskeletal disorders involving the back accounted for over 38 percent of all work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Additionally, the BLS reported that in 2014, back injuries were the third-highest category of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses involving days away from work.
What Are the Signs of a Serious Back Injury?
Many back injuries are mild enough to only require a few days of rest to recover but some manifest severe enough that they can require medication, surgery, and even long-term physical therapy. Unfortunately, the differences between minor and severe back injuries may not be immediately apparent to the injured party and this is one of the reasons why it is so important to obtain a medical examination after a workplace injury even when you think your injuries are minor. Regardless of the degree of damage at the time of the workplace accident, many back injuries can, unfortunately, worsen without treatment.
Signs of serious back injury can include symptoms such as:
- Numbness
- A loss of sensation
- Tingling in hands, feet, fingers or toes
- Pressure or extreme pain in the head, neck or back
- Difficulty maintaining balance
- Labored or difficult breathing
- Weakness or lack of coordination
Have You or a Loved One Suffered a Workplace Back Injury?
If you or a loved one has suffered a back injury while working, many areas of your lives have probably been affected, including financially, and you’re probably considering your workers’ compensation claim for benefits. You should understand that insurance companies often deny workers’ compensation benefits claims because they count on the injured person not fighting back. Therefore, you should obtain legal help as quickly as possible from someone who will fight for you and ensure that you receive all of the benefits that you need and are entitled to. While back injuries are common, the Miami workers’ compensation attorneys at Payer & Associates understand that your situation is unique and we are the team you need to help you be successful with your claim. Begin by contacting us today to schedule a free consultation.
Resource:
local10.com/news/local/fort-lauderdale/crane-used-to-bring-down-worker-who-injured-back-on-5th-floor-of-building
https://www.payerandassociates.com/the-causes-of-summer-workplace-injuries/
