The spine can be vulnerable to a number of different injuries in the workplace, from sudden injuries caused by an accident or fall to wear and tear conditions that occur over time. Damage to the spine, regardless of the cause or severity, can lead to permanent changes to your strength, sensation, and other bodily functions and should be investigated by a spine specialist.
The spine is made up of a series of small bones (vertebrae), cushioning cartilage, flexible ligaments, and muscles. All of them provide protection to the spinal cord (the sensitive nerves that carry messages to other parts of the body) and allow the body to support the head, stand upright, and move in a variety of ways. Damage to the spine can produce a range of symptoms from pain, impaired mobility, weakness, restricted movement, loss of sensation, tingling, and burning. It can have a significant impact on your ability to function normally. In some cases, damage to a single vertebra can result in a serious lifelong injury or even death.
Causes of Spinal Injuries in the Workplace
Spinal injuries in the workplace can be caused by a number of different factors, and an accident involving trauma or extreme force to the body, such as a fall, jolt, or violent twist or bend, can cause significant damage to the spine. Certain types of movement can result in damage to the spinal cord, vertebrae, tissue, or muscles surrounding it, and can lead to temporary or permanent damage. Examples include:
- A fall from a significant height (ladder or scaffolding)
- An awkward fall (whilst stretching to reach something or carrying out a task)
- A fall from a moving vehicle (forklift or tractor)
- A motor vehicle crash or collision
- An accident causing trauma or injury to the back, neck or head, such as being hit by a falling heavy object
- Repetitive twisting, bending, or lifting movements
- Poor posture when carrying or lifting a heavy object
- Prolonged standing or sitting
Common Types of Spinal Injuries
Lumbar Spine Injuries
The weight-baring lumbar spine (lower back) can be vulnerable to injuries such as sprains and strains that stretch or damage muscles and ligaments, from activities such as lifting incorrectly or excessive twisting or bending of the spine. Fractures and dislocations can occur from a sudden blow or trauma to the spine.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured disc, can cause severe back pain. Discs are cushion-like pads that act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae in the spine. A herniated disc happens when the outer disc layer tears and its gel-like center leaks out, which can irritate and put pressure on nearby nerves. A herniated disc is often the result of gradual, age-related wear and tear called disc degeneration, but poor posture while lifting and physically demanding occupations that require repetitive movements, such as bending, twisting, lifting, or pulling, can accelerate degeneration.
Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries can occur from a sudden traumatic blow such as from a fall or hit to the spine from a falling object. These injuries can result from damage to vertebrae, ligaments, discs of the spinal column, or to the spinal cord itself. Spinal cord damage can lead to a loss of control or movement of limbs, lost sensation, a tingling sensation, loss of control of the bladder or bowels, and breathing/respiratory difficulties.
Thoracic spine injury
The thoracic spine is located in the upper, middle part of the back (chest, ribs, and mid back area) and is built for stability and to keep the body upright. Injuries to the thoracic spine often occur from high energy impacts or in crushing type injuries and can lead to significant spinal instability.
Whiplash
A whiplash injury is primarily caused by a rear end car collision, but it can result from other types of trauma as well, such as a fall. This type of injury causes a rapid back and forth movement of the neck, much like the cracking of a whip, which can stretch the muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues in the neck and cervical spine.
Comprehensive Care for Spinal Injuries in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, Michigan
At Ahlgren Spine we diagnose and treat a range of spine conditions and injuries. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine specialist, Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren provides a comprehensive physical examination along with state-of-the-art technology to observe and evaluate your symptoms in order to find the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
To learn more about the services we offer, or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (248) 215-8080 or use our convenient online request form.
