One of the most common injuries that an individual could sustain in a workplace accident is a back injury.  Whether it is in a motor vehicle accident, slip and fall, or other work-related incident, back injuries can be debilitating and disabling.  This is why an injured worker suffering a back injury needs to seek counsel from a workers’ compensation lawyer in Philadelphia, PA to recover the full benefits necessary to help an injured worker.

Back Sprains and Strains

While most prevalent, back sprains and strains happen to also be the most treatable. Back sprains and strains are often in the lower back, as that part of the body is supporting other parts of the body. A sprain or strain in the back can occur when a muscle or tendon in the back is pulled or stretched suddenly or over gradual repetition. Signs and symptoms of a back sprain or strain tend to include the following:

• Muscle cramping, spasms, pain, or pressure in the back, neck, or head
• A “pop” noise and feeling when the injury takes place
• Inability to move, or if able to move, pain worsens as movement increases
• Loss of sensation or tingling in fingers, toes, hands, or feet
• Loss of bladder or bowel control for lower back strains that are severe

Although some sprains and strains heal on their own, best practice is to consult with a medical professional to create a record to support a workers’ compensation claim to cover your medical bills and lost wages.  

Herniated or Bulging Discs

A disc is a cushion between the vertebrae. A herniated or bulging disc forms when the inside of a disc penetrates and tears through the tougher, exterior layer. The distention irritates nearby nerves and creates great pain. Signs and symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling
• Pain in the arm or leg
• Muscle weakness
• Extreme pain
• Radiating pain down the leg (sciatic pain)
• Loss of range of motion
• Pain and discomfort performing certain actions like twisting or bending

Fractured Vertebra

A fractured vertebra is when there is a break or crack in the vertebra. Not only can it be caused by trauma to the spine such as a fall or car crash, but it can also be the result of aging from repetitive tasks at work. Signs and symptoms of this include:

• Loss of height
• Hunched posture
• Constant or severe back pain

If you injured your back while at the workplace, contact an experienced Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation attorney at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. You may be entitled to WC benefits to cover the cost of your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with your work injury. Our injury attorneys represent clients throughout Pennsylvania. For a free consultation, call us at 888-PITT-LAW or complete our online contact form.