Back Pain At Work: What Can You Do About It?

Back pain at work is a growing issue in the US and around the world. But, what’s the real issue? Where does it come from? And, what can you do about it?

In most cases, back pain comes from pinched nerves. But, stress is also a common factor. You can quickly see why work can cause back pain. You might have constant physical stress. But, even sitting on a desk can mess with your back.

Thankfully, there’s a lot you can do about it. As an employer, you should also care for your workers.

In this article, I’ll share some tips for everyone.

Where does back pain at work come from?

There are many causes of back pain in the workplace. In most cases, it comes from repetition, heavy workloads, or physical exertion.

Naturally, carrying loads is the most common reason. Heavy or bulky loads can compromise the lower back. That’s especially true with bad technique.

That said, repetitive tasks can also be a culprit. Packing products, bending, stretching, and more can pinch a nerve. In many cases, workers also work beyond their capacity.

Curiously, sitting for long periods at a desk can also pressure your nerves.

Back pain and lifestyle influences

Of course, we can’t neglect lifestyle factors. Aging, obesity, and lacking physical condition also play a role. Keeping a healthy weight with enough exercise can diminish back pain at work.

A healthy diet also goes a long way. Calcium and vitamin D are a must for anyone working physically. They can protect your bones from deterioration.

For exercise, combining aerobics and strength training is ideal. You can also work on your balance. The latter can minimize the risk of physical injury.

How does back pain at work impact employees?

Of course, back pain isn’t merely a nuisance. It can severely impact how your workers perform in the workplace. That’s why we must assess how back pain impacts them.

Fern Health has a list of 10 items. Let’s summarize them.

1. It leads the causes of workplace disability.
2. It saps productivity from the employee.
3. Back pain makes decision-making a lot more difficult.
4. Likewise, it decreases motivation and workplace satisfaction.
5. Treatment is also invasive and can be ineffective.
6. It’s also quite expensive to maintain.
7. Back pain also makes sleep more difficult and less rewarding.
8. It also shares a link with depression. It further diminishes workplace efficiency.
9. Pain can hinder interpersonal relationships with coworkers.
10. Finally, it lowers the employee’s overall quality of life.

What can you do about back pain at work?

Thankfully, you’re not out of options. It’s a common problem, yes. But, that also means it has received lots of attention.

That said, preventing back pain is a task for everyone. Both employees and employers can take measures. The latter can provide instructions and training on workplace safety.

7 simple tips to reduce back pain

Iosh has 7 simple tricks to reduce the condition. Let me summarize them below:

1. Assess the risk in the workplace. Make a goal out of figuring out what can trigger back pain at work.
2. Once you identify these risks, control them.
3. Make sure you’re getting regular breaks now and then.
4. Employers can employ proper ergonomics. Tailor them to the job’s requisites.
5. Workers can develop their approach to the tasks. Make sure it’s as stress-free as possible.
6. Focus on prevention instead of treatment.
7. Finally, make sure to report how you’re feeling. Employers should also have the required channels for health assessment.

The holistic takeaway

Back pain at work is a growing concern. It impacts satisfaction, productivity, focus, and more. Of course, it’s not something we can merely ignore. But, that doesn’t mean it’s a complex issue.

In fact, there’s a lot you can do. A few stretches, taking rests, and other tactics are simple. Yet, they can go a long way in relieving back pain in general. Sleeping properly and exercising are also fantastic additions.

Speaking of exercise, there’s a great program.

The Back Pain Breakthrough is my choice for recommendations. It’s an exercise program focused on relieving tension from your nerves. It’s a simple, step-by-step guide to a happier life.

To learn how it works, check out my official review!