Common Workplace Injuries: Overexertion and Work Injuries — What Are They?

Each day across the nation, people get up and head to work, ready to perform the duties required of them in their jobs. While some people head to labor-intensive jobs like carpentry, construction, and warehouse work, while others may head to restaurants, office buildings, and other vocations. While most people assume that people with jobs that require lots of manual labor are the most likely to suffer an injury at work, the truth is that workers in any vocation may be hurt on the job.

One of the most common injuries reported by workers is overexertion while on the job. Overexertion often includes injuries caused by repetitive motions, lifting heavy items in the workplace, or stress and strain put on muscles and joints due to the required job duties.

Fortunately, Overexertion Symptoms Can Be Simply Avoided by Following Several Important Tips

• Knowing how to properly lift a heavy object will do more to prevent back injury than anything else.
• Before lifting anything, make sure that it is not simply too heavy for you to lift alone. Ask someone for help if you don’t feel confident in your ability to safely lift the object.
• Be sure that the object’s weight is balanced and secure; shifting during lifting can inflict unanticipated stress on the back and spine.
• Wear gripped gloves if you must, just be sure that you have a firm grip on the object. Use handles or carrying straps when they are available.
• Before you lift, make sure you have a path planned and that it is clear, as it may be difficult to see the ground if the object is large. Don’t hurry when lifting. By taking your time, you’ll be able to gauge your body’s response to the weight.
• And above all else, remember to use your legs to lift, not your back. Bend at the knees and keep your back straight and your head up. Hold the object close to your body as you carry it and do not hesitate to put the object down if you begin to feel exhaustion or pain.

If a Worker Is Injured by Overexertion at Work, They May Be Eligible for Compensation

Worker’s compensation coverage exists to protect employees from harm while working. Companies carry such coverage to provide financial assistance to workers who are injured while performing their duties or in work-related accidents. Such protection usually helps an employer avoid costly lawsuits and will help provide support for employees in the event of an accident.

If a worker suffers injury due to overexertion, they may find it difficult to work. It may be hard to move sore or injured limbs and muscles may be too sore or painful to operate for a time. Injuries caused by overexertion may require simple bed rest and recovery, or they may be more serious if the damage was done to muscles, nerves, or tendons.

Worker’s compensation coverage may provide financial assistance for doctor’s visits and required medical treatments. Employees may be required to submit medical records documenting the visits, or they may be asked to consult company recommended doctors in order to make sure their claims are valid. If your claim is wrongly denied by your employer, you may be able to pursue legal action to gain the compensation you require. You may be able to argue your case and get your employer to take a closer look at your worker’s compensation claim. And get in touch with an experienced law firm!

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