The human spine is an impressively intricate system. Many different discs, called vertebra, all work together with complex muscle systems, nerves and fascia to help you twist, turn, lift and stand upright. Your spine also helps transfer information from your brain to the rest of your body.
That is why a back injury is such a serious concern. Far too many people choose to ignore back pain and back injuries in the hope that it will just go away. Unfortunately, ignoring a back injury can actually make it worse over time. Not only can the pain get worse, but you could end up causing severe damage to your nerves or spine without proper treatment.
Pinched nerves can cause issues with sensation and motor control
When something in your spine is out of place, there can be a cascade of multiple consequences that have a long-term effect on your health and your ability to work. One serious concern about spinal injuries is the potential for pinched nerves.
If a joint in the spine gets damaged or if an individual vertebra moves off of its cushion, it is possible for a nerve close to the spine to wind up pinched or even severed. Nerve damage like that can have a profound impact on your ability to function on a daily basis.
In some cases, a pinched nerve could affect your ability to use a limb or an extremity. In other cases, it can cause severe pain or a lack of sensation in the area near the nerve. Proper treatment for displaced vertebra and other spinal injuries is the only way to avoid the potential for a pinched nerve caused by repetitive use of an already damaged back.
Pain and mobility issues can end your career
Back injuries are relatively common for people who work in physically demanding jobs. Whether you are a mechanic, a construction worker or a manufacturing employee, a back injury could be the end of your job as you know it. When you no longer have the ability to twist, lift and move freely, work can become prohibitively difficult.
More importantly, the pain and potential nerve damage you experience can impact every area of your life. You may no longer be able to shower or dress yourself properly. In some cases, the pain can become so debilitating that you have trouble sleeping, which puts you at greater risk for workplace injuries.
If you start experiencing back pain on your job, whether it is the result of a sudden accident or the stress of doing the same work everyday, you should report it to your supervisor as soon as possible. Seeking adequate medical care is the only way to stave off the worst effects of back injuries. It may also be necessary for you to seek workers compensation if you cannot return to work while you seek treatment.
