Back injuries are common. Injuries to bones, connective tissue, joints, muscles and nerves in the back can cause pain.
While back injuries can occur anywhere in the spine, they are prevalent in individuals’ lower backs. The most common are sprains, strains, herniated disks and fractured vertebrae. Here is more information on these potentially severe injuries.
What are some symptoms of severe injuries?
Severe injuries include bruising or damage to the spinal cord or organs and bone fractures. These are the most common symptoms of these types of injuries:
- Trouble breathing
- Bowel movement issues
- Numb or tingling extremities
- Fever
- Paralysis
- Bloody urine
Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor immediately.
What are some signs of minor injuries?
Signs of minor back injuries include pain, tenderness, stiffness, trouble standing up, muscle spasms, bruising, swelling and pain in the extremities. Each type of back pain is unique and will present individual symptoms. These can also change due to underlying diseases, age, fitness level, smoking habits, obesity and job type.
What causes them?
Back injuries are common in activities that involve impacts, repetitive motions, sudden jolts or bumps. Straining can also cause back injuries.
When is it necessary to visit a doctor?
Unless someone has a severe injury, people with back injuries should see a doctor if their condition does not improve in a few days or if they are not completely healed in six weeks. Then, a doctor can prescribe medication for pain, recommend a physical therapist and run necessary tests.
Anyone who suspects a back injury should immediately go to their doctor. That ensures they get documentation of any work-related injuries and can receive appropriate compensation promptly.
