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Back injuries: Causes and prevention

Lab Safety Advisor, February 20, 2007

Preventing back injuries is a priority for employers faced with rising workers' compensation costs and reduced productivity.

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality identifies four behaviors that can lead to back pain:

  1. Bending and lifting objects from the floor
  2. Side-to-side twisting that puts pressure on the muscles in the back
  3. Standing for long periods of time
  4. Sitting that can put pressure on the spine

According to Lori Stotko, an occupational therapist from Half Moon Bay, CA, the basic tips for preventing back pain include:

  • Frequent stretching-employees should stand up and walk around to promote circulation
  • Regular exercise-employees' bodies will not perform athletic miracles after a weekend of inactivity
  • Reduce stress-a primary contributor to most musculoskeletal disorders and has a significant link to lower back pain.
  • Reduced noise levels and improved lighting-creates a harmonious work environment

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