Most workers face at least some potential form of danger while at the workplace. Though it is not often extreme, it is a possibility you should not overlook. Some of the most common work related injuries include repetitive stress injuries and back pain.
Back pain can come from many different causes. But no matter where it comes from, it has the potential to alter your life at work and home in negative ways.
Statistics for lower back pain
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke discuss the impact of back pain. In particular, lower back pain affects a huge number of workers every year. In fact, certain studies have pointed to back pain as the leading worldwide cause of disability. It accounts for up to 264 million lost work days every year, which equates to two work days for every full-time worker in the United States.
It is the third most common reason for people to go see a doctor. It also costs the health care system around $50 billion every year. When you add in related matters such as decreased productivity or lost wages, this figure can easily double.
Up to 80 percent of all people will experience back pain at some point during their lifetime. Most people who experience lower back pain will recover from it. However, there is a small percentage who instead suffer from chronic back pain that may end up debilitating.
The impact on your work
Even short-term back issues can cause you to lose time at work. Long-term problems create an even bigger impact, leaving you potentially unable to work and struggling to meet expensive medical bills. This is why many in your position seek compensation for back injuries or work conditions that contributed to your pain.
