Back injuries are not exactly uncommon among workers of all ages and professions. However, most people do not realize just how detrimental they are and what an enormous impact they have on your ability to work.
In fact, back injury and the subsequent pain can actually lead to problems with your job itself. But in what ways do these impacts manifest?
How much does back pain cost?
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke discusses how back pain can cause problems in your work. First, back pain is one of the most common causes of missed workdays, with 264 million workdays lost every year due to it. On top of that, it puts a huge strain on the medical system, costing Americans $50 billion every year. After factoring in the possibility of decreased productivity and lost wages, this number easily doubles to $100 billion or more.
Issues with employment
Back pain can eventually end in major issues with your job, though. You may find yourself physically incapable of carrying out tasks vital to your position. If you have to take too much time off to recover, you can also end up backsliding in productivity and falling weeks behind your coworkers. This can put potential promotions or raises in jeopardy and, in extreme cases, even your position.
You must also consider the possibility of surgical costs. Most short-term back pain resolves in a few weeks or months, but in some cases, it instead becomes a long-term issue. If you lack income while spending money on expensive medical procedures, you can easily end up in debt, which is why many in your position seek legal help for compensation options.