special subjects
Work Related Back Pain
Introduction
Work-related back pain is a common cause of worker absenteeism and loss of productivity. The prevalence of back pain in workers is related to the specific job description and tasks being done. Work-related back injuries range from simple strains and sprains to Cervical Herniated Nucleus Pulposus , Work-related back pain is usually due to falls while standing, falls from heights, or direct blunt trauma to the back. Workers claiming compensation for on-the-job back injury often claim injuries involving low back strain, herniated disks, fractured vertebrae, pinched nerves, and Spinal Trauma . Malingering may be a concern with regard to work-related back injury and back pain. Specific work activities, including operating motor vehicles, heavy lifting, repetitive lifting (both heavy and light items), overhead work, and whole-body vibration, have a higher risk of work-related back injury. Specific psychosocial issues may contribute to work-related back pain. These issues include job dissatisfaction, tedious or monotonous work, a perceived heavy workload, tasks with a demanding deadline, and a perceived lack of input to decision-making. Smoking and obesity are linked epidemiologically to nonoccupational back pain; both are common among workers and thus may also increase the risk of work-related back pain. A past history of work-related back injury and pain is an important predictor of future back injury. 