Next to headaches medical experts note that back problems are the most common medical complaint. Back problems are also found to be second only to the common cold as the greatest cause of lost workdays.
Back injuries alone cost American industry $10-14 billion in workers compensation costs and about 100-million lost workdays annually.
The major symptom of most back impairments is back pain, which can be localized or widespread radiating from a central point in the back. If ligaments and muscles are weak then discs in the lower back can become weakened.
Years of back abuse by working at a computer for long hours, the discs may simply wear out and you may live with chronic pain. Degeneration of the spine, due to aging, is also a major contributor to lower back pain, but it is often misdiagnosed as a sprain or strain. Only a small percentage of all serious back injuries are true sprains, strains or fractures. Most are the result of degeneration of the spine caused by aging and abuse. Most back-injuries, however, occur in the 24 to 40 year old age group.
ErgoQuest can help Employers accommodate their employees with back impairments. Here are some questions to consider: What limitations is the employee with a back impairment experiencing?How do these limitations affect the employee’s job performance?
What specific job tasks are problematic as a result of these limitations? What accommodations are available to reduce or eliminate these problems? Are all possible resources being used to determine accommodations? Has the employee with a back impairment been consulted regarding possible accommodations? Do supervisory personnel and employees need training regarding back impairments?