You might not realize how vulnerable your spine is until a workplace injury strikes. A qualified spine specialist for work injuries in New Jersey, like Dr. Grigory Goldberg, can help diagnose and treat these conditions before they become debilitating.
If you’re dealing with a spinal injury from work, you’re not alone. In this guide, we will explain the most common types of workplace back injuries, plus warning signs and prevention strategies.
The Alarming Statistics Behind Common Workplace Spine Injuries
The scope of workplace spinal injuries reveals a troubling pattern. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, work-related back injuries represent a substantial portion of all occupational injuries:
- Musculoskeletal disorders involving the back accounted for 38.5% of all work-related musculoskeletal disorders in 2016.
- Nursing assistants experienced 10,330 back-related musculoskeletal disorder cases in 2016.
- Laborers and hand material movers experienced another 10,660 cases during the same year.
The Most Frequent Types of Workplace Spinal Injuries
Occupational hazards affecting the spine vary by industry, but several injury types appear consistently across work environments:
- Herniated discs occur when repetitive lifting pushes disc material through the outer layer, compressing nerves and causing radiating pain.
- Compression fractures happen when vertebrae collapse from falls or heavy object impacts.
- Spinal cord injuries represent some of the most devastating spinal injury cases, potentially causing permanent paralysis.
- Whiplash occurs when your head jerks suddenly during workplace incidents.
- Spinal stenosis develops when your spinal canal narrows from workplace vibration and repetitive motions.
Whether you’re dealing with whiplash, a fracture, or any other spinal injury from work, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
How Work Activities Damage Your Spine
Back strain from repetitive work tasks accumulates over time, often causing more damage than single traumatic events. Heavy lifting strains your back muscles and spinal structures, especially when you lift incorrectly, using your back instead of your legs. Prolonged sitting weakens the muscles supporting your spine and increases pressure on spinal discs, creating problems for office workers.
Repetitive motions wear down spinal tissues through constant stress, and vibration exposure damages spinal structures through constant jarring movements. Awkward postures can force your spine into unnatural positions that strain muscles and compress nerves.
While these repetitive issues may not seem like an “injury,” they can cause significant damage over time.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Spinal health issues caused by work injuries often start with subtle symptoms that gradually worsen. You should contact a spine specialist in New Jersey if you experience persistent pain from a spinal injury from work lasting more than a few days. Numbness or tingling in your arms or legs indicates nerve compression requiring an immediate evaluation.
Prevention Strategies for Workplace Spinal Injuries
Prevention of work-related spinal problems requires employer commitment and employee awareness. Using proper lifting techniques by engaging your leg muscles instead of your back provides crucial protection. Ergonomic workstations with appropriate chair height and monitor positioning reduce strain significantly.
Strengthening core muscles through regular exercise protects your spine from injury as well. Wearing safety equipment like back braces and using mechanical lifting aids when available adds another layer of protection.
Seek Expert Treatment From a Spine Specialist in New Jersey
A spinal injury from work requires specialized medical attention to ensure proper healing. Dr. Grigory Goldberg understands the unique challenges workers face when dealing with spine injuries and provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services tailored to specific conditions.
Learn more about visiting a spine surgeon after a work injury to protect your health and your career. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Contact Dr. Grigory Goldberg at (844) 373-2772 to discuss your spinal injury from work and explore treatment options.
FAQs About Workplace Injuries
Understanding your options after a workplace injury helps you make informed decisions about your care and recovery.
How Do I Find a Workers’ Comp Doctor for My Spine Injury?
Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance typically provides a list of approved medical providers. A workers’ comp doctor specializes in occupational health and understands the documentation requirements for your claim.
When Should I See a Spine Surgeon in New Jersey for My Work Injury?
You should consult a spine surgeon in New Jersey if conservative treatments fail to improve your symptoms after several weeks or if you experience severe neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness.
Can You Safely Return to Your Job After a Spinal Injury From Work?
Many workers successfully return to their jobs after proper treatment and rehabilitation. Your recovery timeline depends on the severity of your injury and the physical demands of your position.
