Overexertion in the Workplace

Lower back pain from overexertion

Injuries that occur at work are stressful and painful. Add in the confusion of reporting a workers’ compensation claim and it may seem like an impossible situation to recover from. Moreover, some injuries don’t occur all at once, especially in cases involving injuries related to overexertion. No matter your work-related injury, you’re likely entitled to work comp benefits.

What Is Overexertion?

Overexertion is defined as over-working your body while on the job. While overexertion can happen regardless of occupation, there are some individuals that might be higher risk such as:

  • Construction workers
  • Individuals working in delivery, such as mail handlers
  • Anyone who is on their feet most of their work day

Overexertion injuries such as sprains and strains can occur in the neck, back or other parts around the body. Most of the time, these injuries occur due to lifting, pushing, pulling, twisting and turning.

Symptoms of Overexertion

The symptoms of overexertion most commonly include severe pain. However, other symptoms may occur such as:

  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Stiff or painful muscles
  • Swelling and tenderness
  • Muscle fatigue
  • General body fatigue
  • Burning sensations
  • Loss of mobility

How to Avoid Overexertion at Work

The best way to avoid an overexertion injury at work is through prevention. Always practice good posture and use safe lifting methods. If you work in a physically challenging environment, remember to take necessary breaks frequently to rest your body. If you work in an office, remember to stand up and move around often to avoid stress on your neck and back.

Some prevention starts at home, long before you even walk through the front door of your workplace. Get enough sleep to prepare your body for the work day ahead. Reduce your caffeine and sugar intake. Exercise regularly. All of this will help strengthen both your body and mind and reduce unnecessary stress.

What to Do If You Get Hurt on the Job

If you get hurt on the job, whether an instant injury or overexertion over time, there are a few steps you should take.

  1. Tell someone.Make sure your manager or supervisor knows you’ve been injured as soon as you notice symptoms.
  2. Don’t continue to work. Working past your injury will only worsen it. Even if you feel the overexertion injury is minor, severe injuries can occur when you push it too far.
  3. File your workers’ compensation claim. As soon as you give notice to your employer, you should be directed to human resources or another entity to enter your claim.

To ensure you receive the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve, it’s best to consult with a skilled workers’ comp attorney. During the claims process, your attorney can instruct you on next steps and answer questions pertaining to your claim.

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Request a Free Case Evaluation to Discuss Your Overexertion Injury

Each workers’ compensation claim is different. That’s why it’s critical to seek the guidance of a tough and experienced attorney. To receive your free case evaluation today, reach out by calling 612-874-6109 or send us a message.