Types of Jobs with Increased Risk of Back Pain

We force our spines to withstand a lot of pressure throughout the day, especially when we’re bending, compressing, twisting, and extending. While pain might form for various reasons, some professions can increase the chance of back injury. Heavy physical work, awkward postures, and static work positions increase the risk. Continue reading to learn more about what careers have a higher risk of injury and tips to avoid back pain.

Don’t let your back pain go untreated. It may be a sign of a more serious health condition, so you may want to seek medical attention from a board-certified spine doctor at the onset of your pain.

Landscapers

Landscaping is hard work. It often requires being bent over on their knees or sitting on the ground for long periods of time. These positions can be rough on the body, especially the spine. Try to take a break every 30 minutes to stretch your body, so you don’t feel any stiffness or discomfort. You also might be lifting heavy bags of soil or similar loads, so protect your back when carrying or lifting.

Construction Workers

Construction workers are constantly lifting, bending, carrying, and pulling heavy objects. Repetitive motions can put unneeded stress on muscles, tendons, and joints. However, much of the pain results from workers not properly lifting objects. You should be lifting with your legs, not your back.

Nurses

Compared to other occupations, nurses are at the highest risk for musculoskeletal disorders. Being on your feet for long shifts and frequently moving patients in and out of wheelchairs, beds, and assistive devices can severely strain back muscles. Whenever possible, have a coworker help you when transferring patients to reduce the likelihood of discomfort.

Janitors

Janitors have to perform many tasks throughout the day like sweeping, mopping, and cleaning. These tasks require repetitive movements that can wear down the spinal discs and cause back pain over time. It’s essential to maintain a good posture and break up tasks whenever possible. That way, you aren’t stuck in the same position for hours.

Office Workers

Even though they aren’t doing repetitive or heavy-lifting tasks like the professionals above do, office workers sit at their desks for about 40 hours a week, and they’re likely to suffer from neck or back pain. These workers should sit upright with their shoulders back to avoid any discomfort. A proper computer set-up is key to preserving good posture.

Truck Drivers

Truck drivers often travel for hours without stopping for multiple days a week. Sitting for long periods of time can lead to joint pain and poor posture, leading to spinal issues. Truckers are often required to unload their cargo, as well.

You should try to pull off at a rest stop every couple of hours to stand or stretch your body. If you also have to unload cargo, make sure you follow proper lifting techniques so as not to stress your body.

Warehouse Workers

Working in a warehouse is a physically demanding job. Workers often work long hours and have to be on their feet the entire time. Repetitive motions such as lifting, reaching, and extending can quickly wear down your body. Be sure to keep your back straight and ask for help when something is too heavy.

Obtain Back Care from Trusted Spine Doctors in Florida

If you’re suffering from back pain, it’s essential to seek medical attention. When you don’t, you risk your injuries worsening. Back pain might even be a sign of a more serious health condition, such as cancer. While most pain will go away within a few weeks, it’s crucial to receive care if your pain persists or increases.

At Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery, we offer the latest in minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat various conditions. However, before surgery, our doctors will always try conservative healing methods to ease your pain. When you partner with the board-certified doctors at Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery, you can be confident that you will return to the life you once enjoyed had before your back pain.

To learn more about our services, call (855) 853-6542 or complete an online contact form today!